The electrolyte composition of the human uterus in normal pregnancy and labour and in prolonged labour
Hawkins, D.F.; Nixon, W.C.
Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the British Empire 65(6): 895-910
1958
ISSN/ISBN: 0307-1871 PMID: 13621288 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1958.tb08584.xDocument Number: 276957
Pieces of uterus were taken at operation from non-pregnant women, women in early and late pregnancy and in premature, normal and prolonged labour. Water, chloride, sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium were estimated and distribution of water was computed from the " chloride space ". Non-pregnant myometrium has a large extracellular water content, about 60 per cent., and during early pregnancy it increases.