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Definitions of Stages and Phases of Labour and Diagnostic Criteria for Dystocia |
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| Stage of labour |
Definition of stage and phase |
Diagnostic Criteria for Dystocia |
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| First stage |
From onset of regular contractions leading to cervical dilatation to full dilatation of cervix |
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| Latent phase |
Cervix 0 – 3.9 cm dilatation |
The diagnosis was not to be given in this phase |
| Active phase |
Cervix ≥ 4 cm dilatation |
< 1/2 cm dilatation of cervix per hour, assessed over 4 hours = dystocia |
| Second stage |
From full dilatation of cervix to the child is born |
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| Descending phase |
From full dilatation of cervix to strong and irresistible urge to push |
> 2 hours without descent = dystocia. If epidural is administered: > 3 hours = dystocia |
| Expulsive phase |
Strong and irresistible pushing during the major part of the contraction |
> 1 hour without progress = dystocia |
Kjærgaard et al. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth 2008 8:45 doi:10.1186/1471-2393-8-45 |
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