Maternal Serum Progesterone And Estradiol During Pregnancy And Childbirth – What Has The Literature Taught Us So Far?

Pappa C, Dosiou K and Kitsouli A

Published on: 2023-02-08

Abstract

Pregnancy and childbirth comprise a complex multifactorial succession of events involving mechanical, inflammatory and endocrine stimuli deriving from the fetal, placental and maternal compartments. Despite extensive research, the precise mechanism of transition from myometrial quiescence to the contractile myometrial state of parturition, remains still to be elucidated. Progesterone and estradiol are known to play a vital role in the maintenance of pregnancy and the cascading process of parturition. However, to further clarify the rationale behind this dynamic balance between gestation and childbirth, we initially need to evaluate the ‘baseline normal’ levels of maternal serum progesterone and estradiol and their fluctuation during uncomplicated pregnancy and labour. This article aims to review the most comprehensive publications that present and analyze the maternal serum progesterone and oestradiol levels and their patterns during low-risk pregnancy and successful childbirth.