Intermediate
Technical
IVT
Precipitous delivery
Rapid labor and delivery occurring within three hours from onset of regular contractions.
Full Definition
An unusually rapid labor process occurring in 2-3% of deliveries, characterized by progression from onset of regular contractions to complete delivery within three hours. While often associated with multiparous women, precipitous delivery can occur in nulliparous patients and may result in complications including cervical lacerations, postpartum hemorrhage, and increased risk of uncontrolled delivery environment.
Usage
Usage note: Term is precipitous, not precipitate; refers to speed of entire labor process.
In Context
- "The patient experienced precipitous delivery with birth occurring 90 minutes after contraction onset." — Delivery summary
- "History of precipitous delivery increases risk for repeat rapid labor in subsequent pregnancies." — Prenatal counseling note
Also known as
precipitous labor
rapid delivery
Contrasted with
prolonged labor
arrested labor
Don't confuse with
precipitate labor
rapid second stage