Analysis of Affecting Factors for Cortisol Level in Cord Blood

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Long-term stress to the fetus causes alterations in adrenal steroidogenesis. The purpose of this study was to analyze the association of cord blood cortisol with stress during delivery. METHODS: Cord blood samples were collected from 58 neonates at once to labor. Cortisol was measured by RIA method(DPC, USA). Cortisol level according to gestational age(38 wks) and method of delivery(Cesarean section vs. vaginal delivery), Apgar score and uterine contraction, were compared to know stress during labor. RESULTS: Cortisol of cord blood had considerable differences between each group, according to gestational age(P<0.001). It was statistically higher in the cases of vaginal delivery than cessarian delivery(P<0.001). The concentration of cortisol was significantly higher according to duration of labor (P<0.05). There was a significant relationship between cortisol level and uterine contraction(P<0.05). The concentration of cortisol was significantly low when Apgar score at 1 min was low(P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Cord cortisol has close association with stress during labor. And so do with post birth prognosis of neonate.