Prolonged labour

Prolonged labour is when the total duration of childbirth is greater than 24 hours.[1] There are two main types, one when the latent phase of labour is greater than 8 hours and the other when the active phase of labour is greater than 12 hours.[1]

The cause can be due to: poor uterine contractions, the babies position or size being abnormal, or issues with the pelvis or birth canal.[1] The last two may result in obstructed labour.

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Education material for teachers of midwifery : midwifery education modules (2nd ed. ed.). Geneva [Switzerland]: World Health Organisation. 2008. pp. 17–36. ISBN 9789241546669.