What Are the Causes of Low Uteroplacental Perfusion?

Uteroplacental blood flow, or perfusion, is indicative of fetal health. The uteroplacental blood flow directly affects the blood flow through the umbilical cord and therefore the baby. Anything that affects the mothers blood pressure will affect the blood flow between the uterus and placenta.

Physiological Causes

Emotional and physical stress, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease and prolonged pregnancy are all potential causes of low uteroplacental perfusion. Contractions can also have a negative effect on the uteroplacental blood flow because they limit the blood flow to the uterus. Consult your physician if you have any questions or concerns.

General Causes

Nicotine, anesthesia, medications used to control blood pressure and some medications used to induce labor can all cause low uteroplacental perfusion. Pregnant women should talk with their physicians to discuss the risks and benefits of using these medications.

Measuring Blood Flow

Physicians will use the following calculation to determine the uteroplacental blood flow: Uterine artery pressure minus uterine vascular pressure divided by uterine vascular resistance. You should talk with your health care provider if you have any questions or concerns regarding your health and the health of your unborn child.

References

• "Obsthetrics Anesthesia Handbook", Uteroplacental Blood Flow, Sanjay Datta, 2006
• "Maternal, fetal, & neonatal physiology: a clinical perspective", Susan Tucker Blackburn, 2007