An in vitro study of the mechanisms underlying ineffective labour in women [ 2002 - 2004 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Helena Parkington (Principal investigator) ,  Prof Eric Moses ,  Prof Shaun Brennecke

Brief description Strong contractions of the uterus are necessary for successful vaginal delivery of the baby. Failure of the uterus to contract forcefully, ineffective labour, is a major cause of caesarean delivery. Drip infusion of oxytocin is routinely used in attempts to strengthen the weak contractions of ineffective labour, but this is not always successful in bringing about vaginal delivery. The normal preparation of the uterus for the process of birth is likely to involve a complex array of processes. The failure to successfully resolve ineffective labour, other than by caesarean section, stems from a lack of understanding of these processes. In our studies of the human uterus over the past few years we found that the behaviour of samples obtained from women undergoing caesarean section during labour was quite variable. Some samples possessed a high degree of negative electricity which made contraction difficult. Some other samples were quite resistant to the contracting effects of oxytocin. In yet a third group, the uterus did not contract when given prostaglandin, one of the body's most important hormones during labour. When the obstetricians checked the medical records of these women, they found that ineffective labour had been diagnosed. The aim of this study is to work out the details of what is happening in these cases of ineffective labour. Since this problem is a major cause of caesarean delivery, a greater understanding of the underlying causes will facilitate the development of more effective treatments and hence bring about a resolution which is fundamental to healthy mothers and babies.

Funding Amount $AUD 326,820.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant