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Table 3 Definitions of stages and phases of labour and diagnostic criteria for non-progressive labour

From: Experiences of non-progressive and augmented labour among nulliparous women: a qualitative interview study in a Grounded Theory approach

Stage of labour

Definition of stage and phase

Diagnostic criteria for non-progressive labour

First stage

From onset of regular contractions leading to cervical dilatation to full dilatation of cervix

 

   Latent phase

Cervix 0 – 3 cm dilatation

The diagnosis is not given in this phase

   Active phase

Cervix ≥ 4 cm dilatation

< 1/2 cm dilatation of cervix per hour, assessed over 4 hours

Second stage

From full dilatation of cervix to the child is born

 

   Descending phase

From full dilatation of cervix to strong and irresistible urge to push

> 2 hours without descend; if epidural is administered:> 3 hours

   Pushing phase

Strong and irresistible pushing during the major part of the contraction

> 1 hour without progress