[Comparative determination of transcortin, total cortisol and free cortisol in the plasma of mothers, newborn and non-pregnant women (author's transl)].

We determined plasma transcortin, total cortisol and free cortisol in mothers, new borns and nonpregnant women. The blood samples were drawn immediately upon delivery. The mothers had significantly higher levels of total cortisol as well as free cortisol and transcortin when compared to non-pregnant women. The new borns had higher levels of total cortisol and free cortisol but unchanged levels of transcortin in comparison to normal subjects. Significant differences were also found with respect to total protein and albumin in all groups.