"Abnormal labour" generally refers to any deviation from the expected pattern. Identifying and understanding these complications early can help manage risks and improve outcomes for both mother and baby. Thanks to advancements in medicine, most cases are manageable.
Complications can vary, with some posing significant risks. The most common complication is anaemia, while more serious complications include placenta previa and preeclampsia.
Placenta Previa
It is a pregnancy complication where the placenta partially or fully covers the cervix. It can pose serious risks during delivery. Management typically involves bed rest, close monitoring or a C-section in severe cases.
Preeclampsia
Characterised by high blood pressure and protein in the urine, if untreated it can lead to risks like preterm birth. Regular prenatal check-ups help in the early detection and management of preeclampsia.
Posterior Position of the Baby
During labour, the baby faces the mother's abdomen, which can make it difficult to descend. Certain positions and movements may help the baby rotate, allowing smoother delivery.
Abnormal Labour refers to complications in labor can lead to risks for both mother and baby, sometimes requiring procedures like a C-section to ensure safe delivery.
When discussing labour progression, four essential factors play a critical role. An imbalance in any of these factors can lead to abnormal labour patterns:
The third stage of labour involves delivering the placenta. Complications at this stage require prompt management to ensure the safety of the baby and mother.
Prolonged labour
Prolonged labour increases the risk of infection and may lead to maternal exhaustion. It can also place stress on the baby, often resulting in a C-section or assisted delivery.
Obstructed labour
Obstructed labour occurs when the baby cannot descend. This condition can lead to severe complications, including uterine rupture, and often requires an emergency C-section.
Posterior position
When the baby’s head faces the mother’s front, it can cause back pain and slow the labour process. Adjusting the mother’s position or attempting manual rotation can sometimes help.
Fetal distress refers to signs that a baby is not coping well during labour, often due to a lack of oxygen. Recognising fetal distress is crucial for timely intervention.
Fetal distress can occur when a baby encounters difficulties during labour, often due to reduced oxygen levels or other stressors. Common causes include abnormalities in the baby’s heart rate, which is a primary indicator. For instance, a low heart rate may signal insufficient oxygen, while an elevated heart rate could indicate maternal infection or dehydration.
Early identification of fetal distress can be critical to ensuring a safe delivery for both mother and baby. Common signs of fetal distress include:
Stay active
A moderately intense 30-minute physical activity on most days of the week is great.
Take Prenatal Vitamins
Ensure you take prenatal vitamins throughout your pregnancy and the postpartum period
Early arrival
Discuss premature labour signs with the doctor to address concerns and get proper guidance.
Labor check-up
If your labour feels abnormal let the doctor examine you first for a correct diagnosis
Childbirth prep
Enrol yourself in prenatal courses to learn different labour stages and what to expect.
Perineal tears are common during childbirth, especially for first-time mothers. The tears vary in severity and typically heal with proper care.
Perineal tears refer to lacerations or cuts in the tissue between the vagina and anus during childbirth.
Perineal tears are categorised by their depth and severity. This helps doctors determine the appropriate treatment and care needed.
Perineal tear repair involves suturing the torn tissue to aid in healing and prevent complications. Minor tears may heal with basic stitches, while third and fourth-degree tears require surgical repair. Proper repair reduces the risk of infection and supports a smoother recovery for the mother.
The most common complication during labour is "failure to progress," often caused by factors such as maternal fatigue, an unfavourable baby position, or weak contractions.
The four danger signs in labour include severe abdominal pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, high blood pressure, and reduced fetal movement.
The three abnormal labour patterns are prolonged labour, obstructed labour, and dysfunctional contractions.
Signs of abnormal labour include prolonged contractions, intense back pain, lack of cervical dilation, and fetal distress.
The four essential factors for labour progression, known as the 4 P's, are: Power, referring to the strength of contractions; Passenger, the size and position of the baby; Passage, the size and shape of the pelvis; and Psyche, the mental state of the mother.
