Changes in maternal peripheral leucocytes around delivery.

Abstract

Changes in leucocyte populations and lymphocyte transformation with PHA were measured serially in 12 pregnant women, before and after delivery. There was a significant increase in the total numbers of leucocytes and neutrophils at delivery and for the 24 hours post partum. Lymphocyte counts increased, but not at significant levels, at or following delivery. Lymphocyte transformation rates were significantly higher before delivery and at 24 hours post partum, than at delivery or 2 hours post partum. Although plasma suppressor factors were found before and after delivery, plasma taken at delivery or 2 hours post partum was significantly more suppressive for nonpregnant lymphocytes. It is recommended that maternal blood samples should be taken before delivery for assays of maternal immunocompetence or maternofetal mixed leucocyte reactions.