What is labour dystocia?

Labour dystocia, also known as difficult or prolonged labor, is a condition in which the mother experiences difficulty in the process of childbirth. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as the size or position of the baby, the mother's pelvis shape, or issues with the uterus or cervix. Labour dystocia can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby, and may require medical intervention such as assisted delivery or a cesarean section.

Labour dystocia refers to abnormal or difficult labour, where the progress of labour is obstructed or delayed. It is typically caused by problems with the mother, the fetus, or the placenta. Common causes of labour dystocia include:

1. Maternal Factors:

- Uterine inertia: Insufficient uterine contractions to push the fetus out
- Cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD): When the fetal head is too large or the maternal pelvis is too small
- Malpresentation: Abnormal positioning of the fetus, such as breech or transverse presentations
- Placental problems: Placental abruption, placenta previa, or retained placenta

2. Fetal Factors:

- Fetal macrosomia: Excessive size or weight of the fetus
- Hydrocephalus: Enlarged head due to an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid
- Fetal malformations: Structural abnormalities that hinder passage through the birth canal

3. Placental Factors:

- Placental insufficiency: Failure of the placenta to provide adequate oxygen and nutrients to the fetus
- Placental abruption: Premature separation of the placenta from the uterus before the baby is born
- Placenta previa: Placenta that covers the cervical opening or partially blocks it

Labour dystocia can lead to various complications for both the mother and the fetus, including prolonged labour, fetal distress, uterine rupture, postpartum hemorrhage, and increased risk of cesarean delivery. Therefore, prompt recognition and management of labour dystocia are crucial for ensuring a safe and successful delivery.