NASA Logo

NTRS

NTRS - NASA Technical Reports Server

Back to Results
Correlative Analysis of Behavioral and Physiological Concomitants of Labor in Pregnant RatsDuring parturition, rats exhibit characteristic behavioral expressions of labor. Lordosis contractions, consisting of an elongation of the dams body, are observed beginning several hours prior to neonate births, whereas vertical contractions, repeated rapid lifts of the abdomen, occur immediately preceding the birth of each neonate. We analyzed underlying changes in intrauterine pressure (IUP) using a telemetric sensor that we modified for use in freely-moving rats. This technique enabled us to correlate behavioral expressions of labor contractions with IUP. A small telemetric blood pressure sensor was fitted within a fluid-filled balloon, similar in size to a full term rat fetus. On Gestational day 19 of the rats' 22-day pregnancy, a unit was surgically implanted within the uterus. The dams were simultaneously videotaped, enabling us to directly correlate IUP signals with behavioral expressions of labor contractions. Earlier phases of labor, consisting predominantly of lordosis contractions were characterized by lower pressures relative to later phases during which higher pressures and vertical contractions were frequently observed.
Document ID
20020073065
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Preprint (Draft being sent to journal)
Authors
Baer, L. A.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
Wade, C. E.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
Ronca, A. E.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
Dalton, Bonnie
Date Acquired
August 20, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2002
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Meeting Information
Meeting: Experimental Biology
Location: New Orleans, LA
Country: United States
Start Date: April 19, 2002
End Date: April 22, 2002
Funding Number(s)
PROJECT: RTOP 121-10-40
PROJECT: RTOP 121-10-50
CONTRACT_GRANT: MH-46485
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

Available Downloads

There are no available downloads for this record.
No Preview Available