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It is characterised by:
The show:
Hormonal factors
Oestrogen theory:
Prostaglandins theory:
Oxytocin theory:
Mechanical factors
o Like any hollow organ in the body, when the uterus in distended to
a certain limit, it starts to contract to evacuate its contents. This
explains the preterm labour in case of multiple pregnancy and
polyhydramnios.
Although the exact mechanism that initiates labor is unknown. Theories have
been proposed to explain how and why labor occurs.
The idea is based on the concept that any hollow body organ when stretched to
its capacity will inevitably contract to expel its contents. The uterus, which is a
hollow muscular organ, becomes stretched due to the growing fetal structures.
In return, the pressure increases causing physiologic changes (uterine
contractions) that initiate labor.
Oxytocin theory
Pressure on the cervix stimulates the hypophysis to release oxytocin from the
maternal posterior pituitary gland. As pregnancy advances, the uterus becomes
more sensitive to oxytocin. Presence of this hormone causes the initiation of
contraction of the smooth muscles of the body (uterus is composed of smooth
muscles).
Prostaglandin theory
In the latter part of pregnancy, fetal membranes and uterine decidua increase
prostaglandin levels. This hormone is secreted from the lower area of the fetal
membrane (forebag). A decrease in progesterone amount also elevates the
prostaglandin level. Synthesis of prostaglandin, in return, causes uterine
contraction thus, labor is initiated.
Advance placental age decreases blood supply to the uterus. This event triggers
uterine contractions, thereby, starting the labor.