SERUM COPPER AND PREGNANCY

Serum copper was investigated in 300 healthy pregnant women divided into ten groups according to the lunar month of pregnancy and in another 30 women in the first stage of labor. The technique of Callen and Henderson modified by Schmidt was used. From the analysis of the results obtained, it is established that serum copper increases continuously during pregnancy. During the corpus luteum phase of pregnancy, however, this increase is gradual and not very significant. The formation of the placenta is accompanied by a sudden rise in the level of the serum copper. In the second half of pregnancy, serum copper continues to rise gradually and reaches its highest level during gestation in the tenth month of pregnancy. The onset of labor brings about a rapid decrease in the content of serum copper. The source of the increased serum copper content during pregnancy and its biologic value are discussed. © 1968.