559 Effect of Intrapartum Oxytocin Administration on Primitive Neonatal Reflex

Abstract

Background and aims: The effect of the infusion of synthetic oxytocin (OT) on newborn behaviour has received little attention although there is a growing body of evidence that suggests it can affect the behaviour of non human mammals both early and in the long term. The impact of exogenous OT on primitive neonatal reflex has not been thoroughly investigated. The objective of the study is to evaluate the effect of OT used during induced labour on primitive neonatal reflex. Methods: Observational descriptive study approved by Local Ethical Committee. 22 women with their first term pregnancies were studied. All had singleton, healthy pregnancies and epidural analgesia was used. Newborns were vaginal delivered and immediately placed in skin-to-skin contact (SSC) with the mother. Patients were excluded if no immediately SSC was applied (n=7), caesarean section was made after study inclusion (n=3) or newborn was admitted in NICU (n=1). 11 patients fulfilled inclusion criteria. 16 primitive neonatal reflexes in Biological Nurturing position were recorded during 20 minutes and evaluated by a blind observer. Patients were asked to sign a letter of consent. Newborn's reflexes were recorded at 34±13.4h of life. Results: Mean GA and birthweight was 39±1.3w and 3339.7±252.2g respectively. Mean OT dose was 1749.8±1971.5 mUI. Mean neonatal reflexes observed were 85.2±8.8%. A negative correlation was found between the amount of OT infused during labour and the amount of neonatal reflexes observed (r= -0.78; p< 0.01). Conclusions: Total dose of oxytocin infused during labour may affect primitive neonatal reflexes.