Prolonged labor

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Stages of Childbirth

Prolonged labor

Prolonged labor, also known as failure to progress, is a term used in obstetrics to describe a labor that is taking longer than expected. This condition can occur during the first stage of labor, the second stage of labor, or both. Prolonged labor can pose risks to both the mother and the fetus, and it often requires medical intervention to ensure a safe delivery.

Causes

Several factors can contribute to prolonged labor, including:

• Cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD) - when the baby's head is too large to pass through the mother's pelvis.
• Malpresentation - abnormal positioning of the baby, such as breech or transverse lie.
• Uterine inertia - weak or uncoordinated uterine contractions.
• Maternal exhaustion - fatigue in the mother, which can slow down the labor process.
• Epidural anesthesia - while it provides pain relief, it can sometimes slow down labor.

Diagnosis

Prolonged labor is typically diagnosed through regular monitoring of the labor process. This includes:

• Cervical dilation - measuring the opening of the cervix.
• Effacement - thinning of the cervix.
• Fetal descent - the baby's movement down the birth canal.
• Contraction pattern - frequency, duration, and strength of uterine contractions.

Management

Management of prolonged labor depends on the underlying cause and the stage of labor. Common interventions include:

• Oxytocin - a hormone administered to stimulate stronger contractions.
• Amniotomy - artificially breaking the water to speed up labor.
• Assisted delivery - using tools like forceps or a vacuum extractor.
• Cesarean section - surgical delivery of the baby if vaginal delivery is not possible.

Risks and Complications

Prolonged labor can lead to several complications, such as:

• Maternal infection - increased risk of infection for the mother.
• Fetal distress - decreased oxygen supply to the baby.
• Postpartum hemorrhage - excessive bleeding after delivery.
• Uterine rupture - a rare but serious complication.

Prevention

While not all cases of prolonged labor can be prevented, certain measures can help reduce the risk:

• Regular prenatal care to monitor the health of the mother and baby.
• Proper management of maternal conditions like gestational diabetes and hypertension.
• Encouraging the mother to stay active and maintain a healthy diet during pregnancy.

See also

• Labor (childbirth)
• Obstetrics
• Cesarean section
• Fetal monitoring
• Maternal health

Related Pages

• Labor (childbirth)
• Obstetrics
• Cesarean section
• Fetal monitoring
• Maternal health