Changes in amniotic fluid concentrations of prostaglandins E₂ and F(2α) in women with preterm labor

There is a paucity of data regarding the concentration of prostaglandins (PGs) in the amniotic fluid of women with preterm labor. The purpose of this study was to determine if preterm labor is associated with changes in amniotic fluid concentration of prostaglandins E₂ and F(2α). Amniotic fluid was retrieved by transabdominal amniocentesis from women with preterm labor and intact membranes. Patients were classified into three groups according to the response to tocolysis and the presence or absence of intra-amniotic infection. PGE₂ and PGF(2α) were measured using specific and sensitive RIA kits. Amniotic fluid concentrations of PGE₂ and PGF(2α) were significantly higher in women with preterm labor and intra-amniotic infection than in women without infection, regardless of the response to tocolysis. These data suggest that both PGs are involved in the mechanisms of preterm labor and may have prognostic value.