Professional
Technical
IVT
dystocic labor
Pronunciation: dis-TOH-sik
Abnormal or difficult labor characterized by slow progress or complications during delivery.
Full Definition
Dystocic labor refers to abnormal or prolonged labor that deviates from the expected patterns of normal delivery. This condition may result from factors such as inadequate uterine contractions, fetal malposition, cephalopelvic disproportion, or maternal anatomical abnormalities. Recognition of dystocic labor patterns is crucial for clinical decision-making regarding interventions such as cesarean delivery or instrumental assistance. The term is often contrasted with eutocia, which describes normal, uncomplicated labor.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with 'dystocia' which is the more common term for the same condition.
In Context
- "The patient experienced dystocic labor requiring cesarean delivery after 18 hours of active labor." — Labor and delivery record
- "Risk factors for dystocic labor include maternal obesity and fetal macrosomia." — Clinical assessment note
Also known as
difficult labor
abnormal labor
dysfunctional labor
Contrasted with
eutocia
normal labor
Don't confuse with
dystocia