The prognosis of the possible foetal and placental complications during delivery by measuring maternal serum levels of pregnancy-specific beta-1-glycoprotein (SP1).

The correlation between pathological maternal SP1 serum levels and possible foetal complications during delivery was studied. In 1954, SP1 measurements were made in 823 pregnant women between the 32nd and 40th gestational weeks. On the basis of SP1 serum concentrations groups of patients were formed. The results clearly show that pathological SP1 serum concentrations are frequently associated with intrauterine growth retardation of the foetus, imminent intrauterine asphyxia, and cesarean section indicated by foetal distress. The SP1 placental function-test is recommended as a simple, inexpensive screening method for the detection of placental insufficiency.