Can the need for emergency caesarean sections be reduced by using oxytocin more sparingly?
Since 1954, oxytocin has commonly been used to stimulate contractions. However, recent experiments by the University of Liverpool team question whether the hormone could be more effective if used less frequently during a difficult labour. By monitoring the concentration of lactic acid during labour, and comparing it to contraction strength and frequency, researchers discovered that even a small acidification subsequent to lactic acid accumulation could have a significantly negative impact. The team hypothesises that better results may be achieved by temporarily resting the uterus during labour, so that the lactic acid accumulation could be cleared rather than the current management strategy of continually stimulating the uterus thus exacerbating lactic acid accumulation. As the uterus tires further, lactic acid accumulates and contractions continue to weaken, an emergency CS can be the only option. An early priority for the Centre for Better Births is to determine the role of oxytocin
