Uterine electromyogram topography to represent synchronization of uterine contractions

ObjectiveTo image the synchronization of different parts of the uterus in relation to the abdominal surface during uterine contractions using uterine electromyogram topography.MethodsOf the 20 participants, 16 were in active labor at term, 1 was in preterm labor, and 3 were experiencing failed induced labor. The signals simultaneously collected by 16 digitized channels were in the frequency ranges of 0.2 to 0.45 Hz and 0.8 to 3 Hz. Relative energies were calculated for these 2 frequency ranges and imaged by means of interpolation and transformation.ResultsUterine topographic imaging during active labor suggested good synchronization in all participants, except in one of the 3 who were experiencing failed induced labor. Most notably, synchronization was as good in preterm labor as it was in labor at term.ConclusionUterine electromyogram topography provided good imaging of the synchronization of uterine contractions, and could be used for further research on uterine contractility during term and preterm labor.