Risk Factors and Management of Dystocia

These flashcards focus on key terms and definitions related to the risk factors, complications, and management strategies of dystocia and related obstetric emergencies.

Dystocia

Abnormal or difficult labor resulting from various risk factors affecting the birthing process.

Epidural Analgesia

Pain relief method involving medication injected in the epidural space, potentially leading to prolonged labor if excessive.

Nulliparity

Being pregnant for the first time; a risk factor for prolonged labor.

Macrosomia

A condition where the baby is significantly larger than average, often over 8.8 lbs, potentially complicating delivery.

Shoulder Dystocia

An obstetric emergency where the baby's shoulder gets stuck during delivery, requiring specific maneuvers to resolve.

McRoberts Maneuver

A technique involving flexing and abducting the mother's thighs to alleviate shoulder dystocia.

Tocolytics

Medications used to suppress premature labor by inhibiting uterine contractions.

Preterm Labor

Regular uterine contractions leading to cervical changes before 37 weeks of gestation.

Postterm Labor

Labor occurring after 42 weeks of gestation, associated with increased risks for both mother and baby.

Amnioinfusion

The infusion of fluid into the amniotic cavity during labor to alleviate umbilical cord compression.

Forceps-Assisted Birth

A type of assisted delivery utilizing forceps to aid in delivering the baby's head during labor.

Cesarean Section

A surgical procedure to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus.

VBAC

Vaginal Birth after Cesarean; refers to the attempt to have a vaginal delivery after a previous cesarean section.