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Melatonin and the Circadian Timing of Human Parturition
Melatonin and the body's internal clock timing of human childbirth
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Abstract
Human parturition tends to occur more frequently at night and in the early morning hours.
- Differences in the timing of parturition among mammalian species may be related to varying uterine responses to hormonal signals that correspond with the time of day.
- Melatonin, a hormone produced by the brain, may act as a circadian signal that triggers uterine contractions leading to childbirth.
- Melatonin's effects on uterine smooth muscle cells appear to enhance the action of oxytocin, resulting in stronger contractions during nighttime.
- Understanding the role of melatonin in parturition could provide insights into managing both term and preterm labor.
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