Labor dystocia refers to abnormally slow labor.
Clinicians disagree on the characteristics of dystocia, and as such definitions vary.
Learn more about the risk factors, prevention, and treatment for dystocia.
David Aaron Troy / Getty Images
David Aaron Troy / Getty Images
What Happens in Labor Dystocia?
There is considerable variation in the diagnostic criteria for labor dystocia.
Given this, labor dystocia is an umbrella term that can include a number of circumstances during delivery.
Broadly, the term refers to circumstances that result in a difficult, lengthy, or obstructed labor.
How Common Is Labor Dystocia?
It is difficult to determine the exact incidence of labor dystocia due to widely variable definitions.
It is believed that dystocia is responsible for the majority of cesarean deliveries.
Dystocia accounts for between 25% and 55% of primary cesarean deliveries.
Risk Factors
There are a number of risk factors for labor dystocia.
Number of Pregnancies
Labor dystocia is more common in those who have never had a baby before.
Generally, there is slower labor progression in the first stages of labor among those who are overweight.
Body Mass Index
BMI is a dated, flawed measure.
Maternal Age
Older maternal age has been associated with labor dystocia.
Other Factors
There are a number of other factors that can increase the risk of labor dystocia.
Labor dystocia can result in complications both for the pregnant person and the fetus.
If you have any concerns about your pregnancy or birth, you should discuss this with a healthcare provider.
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