Fetal Urine Production in Late Pregnancy
Author Information
Author(s): Robert H. Stigter, Eduard J. H. Mulder, Hein W. Bruinse, Gerard H. A. Visser
Primary Institution: Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht
Hypothesis
Hourly fetal urine production rate (HFUPR) was studied in relation to both gestational age and the onset of spontaneous labor in normal term human pregnancies.
Conclusion
HFUPR falls before and in relation to the time of onset of labor rather than in relation to gestational age.
Supporting Evidence
- HFUPR did not change significantly between 37 and 42 weeks' gestation.
- HFUPR decreased during the last 14 days prior to the onset of spontaneous labor.
- No significant correlation was found between HFUPR and AFI.
Takeaway
The amount of urine a baby makes in the womb doesn't change much as the pregnancy goes on, but it does drop in the days leading up to birth.
Methodology
Hourly fetal urine production rate was assessed using ultrasound measurements of the fetal bladder at 1–5-minute intervals.
Limitations
The study only included women with uncomplicated singleton pregnancies, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
142 women with uncomplicated singleton pregnancies, mean gestational age of 277 days.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.005
Statistical Significance
p<0.005
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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