Prostaglandins in the human umbilical circulation at birth

Prostaglandin E (PGE), prostaglandin F (PGF) and 13, 14-dihydro-15- keto-prostaglandin F (PGFM) have been measured in umbilical cord plasma obtained immediately after delivery of the baby before clamping of the cord. In general the prostaglandin levels followed the pattern PGFM>PGE>PGF. A significant arterio-venous difference was demonstrated only for PGE with raised venous levels (