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Table 1 Definitions of Stages and Phases of Labour and Diagnostic Criteria for Dystocia

From: Obstetric risk indicators for labour dystocia in nulliparous women: A multi-centre cohort study

Stage of labour

Definition of stage and phase

Diagnostic Criteria for Dystocia

First stage

From onset of regular contractions leading to

cervical dilatation to full dilatation of cervix

 

   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

 

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