Serum and hair concentrations of copper during pregnancy.

Serum and hair concentration of copper were measured in 28 nonpregnant women and 60 pregnant women at 20 to 22 wk gestation (2nd trimester), 36 to 37 wk gestation (3rd trimester), and 3 days postpartum. The serum copper concentration in pregnant women was approximately twice (1.71 to 1.79 micrograms/ml) the normal nonpregnant values (0.98 micrograms/ml). These high levels persisted throughout pregnancy and early postpartum. The mean concentration of serum copper in maternal serum was about five times those in umbilical cord blood (0.33 microgram/ml) and a strong relationship was noted between maternal and cord copper concentration. Hair copper levels were similar in pregnant and nonpregnant subjects. No significant relationship was noted between serum and hair copper concentrations. Serum copper levels were higher and hair copper concentration was lower in primigravida. Previous history of oral contraceptive usage and alcohol intake during pregnancy had no effect on serum or hair copper levels. The effect of smoking was not consistent and showed a significant lowering effect on serum copper values only in the 2nd trimester. The 3rd trimester levels of hair copper and serum copper demonstrated a significant correlation with neonatal weight and head circumference, respectively. Further studies are indicated to understand the implication of such changes in copper metabolism.