montevideo units
Pronunciation: mon-teh-vee-DAY-oh
Measurement of uterine contraction strength calculated by multiplying intensity by frequency over ten minutes.
Full Definition
Montevideo units (MVUs) provide an objective measure of uterine contractile activity by calculating the sum of individual contraction intensities (in mmHg above baseline) over a 10-minute period. This measurement requires internal uterine pressure monitoring via intrauterine pressure catheter (IUPC). Normal active labor typically generates 200-250 MVUs, while values below 200 may indicate inadequate uterine activity requiring augmentation. Values exceeding 400 MVUs suggest uterine hyperstimulation and potential risk for uterine rupture. MVUs help clinicians distinguish between adequate and inadequate labor progress, guiding decisions about oxytocin administration and other interventions.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Montevideo, Uruguay, where the measurement was developed. Often abbreviated as MVUs.
In Context
- "Montevideo units of 180 indicated inadequate uterine activity, prompting oxytocin initiation." — Labor management note
- "Internal monitoring revealed Montevideo units exceeding 400, requiring oxytocin discontinuation." — Uterine hyperstimulation protocol