Placenta Repository
Abnormal function of the placenta is a major contributor to adverse pregnancy outcomes. The human placenta provides a unique opportunity to study human tissues since the tissue is commonly discarded. These materials will be used in the study of placental function and regulation in healthy pregnancies as well as those complicated by pathology. Generally, a research repository collects and stores human specimens (samples of blood, tissue, or body fluids) and/or data for use in future research projects. Storing and gathering lots of specimens and data together can help to conduct future research and avoid re-collecting specimens and data over and over again.
The purpose of this repository is to learn about the placenta and myometrium and how it functions in pregnancy. The repository is a collection of samples and data that will be used to study processes occurring in normal healthy pregnancies and those complicated by disease. The tissues collected include a blood sample from you, the placenta and the attached membranes and cord blood collected from the umbilical cord that remains attached to the placenta after delivery. These samples will be processed and stored for future research that will lead to a better understanding of common complications of pregnancy such as pre term birth, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and conditions, including obesity, that lead to low and high birth weight. As a result of this research we hope to be able to identify those pregnancies that are at risk of poor outcomes and to develop methods for prevention and treatment.
Eligibility
- Pregnant women
- 15-52 years old
- Delivering at OHSU
Who do I contact for additional information?
To find out more information and to learn if you are qualified to participate, please call the Women's Health Research Unit's confidential recruitment line at 503-494-3666.