Effect of supracervical apposition and spontaneous labour on apoptosis and matrix metalloproteinases in human fetal membranes.

Background: Apoptosis and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-9) are capable of hydrolysing components of the extracellular matrix and weakening the fetal membranes which leads to eventual rupture, a key process of human parturition. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of supracervical apposition and spontaneous labour on apoptosis and MMP-9 in human fetal membranes at term.

Methods: Fetal membranes were obtained from term non-labouring supracervical site (SCS) and compared to (i) a paired distal site (DS) or (ii) site of rupture (SOR) after spontaneous labour onset.

The effects of maternal betamethasone administration on the intrauterine growth-restricted fetus.

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with altered fetal cardiovascular function to ensure adequate perfusion of essential organs. IUGR fetuses are at risk of preterm delivery and so are likely to receive antenatal glucocorticoids to promote lung maturation. Because glucocorticoids alter vascular tone, we questioned whether such treatment may induce fetal cardiovascular alterations.