Human ACTH, beta-lipotropin and beta-endorphin levels in maternal plasma at delivery.

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), beta-lipotropin (beta-LPH) and beta-endorphin (beta-EP) were measured simultaneously in maternal plasma at delivery. Mean concentrations of beta-LPH and beta-EP in maternal plasma at delivery were significantly higher than those in normal control. There were significant positive correlations among ACTH, beta-LPH and beta-EP concentrations, respectively. These data suggest that beta-LPH and beta-EP were elevated during delivery and in parallel with each other.