Study of Placental Function in Healthy and Pathological Pregnancies

Study of Placental Function in Healthy and Pathological Pregnancies

The purpose of this study is to establish a tissue and data repository consisting of samples of human placentas, umbilical cord blood, and maternal blood, collected at the time of delivery. Specimens will be used in cellular, molecular, and functional studies to learn more about changes in placental structure and function, which can result in serious pregnancy complications and determine life-long health by programming the fetus for future metabolic and cardiovascular disease.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy women delivering at term

• Women with pregnancy complications such as:

  • pre-term birth,
  • intrauterine growth restriction,
  • diabetes, and
  • obesity.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Women:

  • under stress,
  • experiencing pain of labor.

• Pregnancies complicated by other pathologies.