Montevideo units
Pronunciation: mon-teh-vi-DAY-oh
A measurement of uterine contraction strength calculated by multiplying contraction amplitude by frequency. Used to assess labor adequacy.
Full Definition
A quantitative measure of uterine contractile strength calculated by multiplying the amplitude of uterine contractions (in mmHg above baseline) by the number of contractions in a 10-minute period. Montevideo units (MVUs) provide an objective assessment of labor progress and are measured using an intrauterine pressure catheter. Values of 180-200 MVUs or greater are generally considered adequate for normal labor progress in the active phase. Values consistently below 180 MVUs may indicate inadequate uterine activity and the need for labor augmentation with oxytocin. This measurement was developed in Montevideo, Uruguay, and remains a standard tool for evaluating labor effectiveness, particularly in cases of protracted or arrested labor.
Usage
Usage note: MVUs is acceptable abbreviation. Always include numerical value and timeframe (e.g., '180 MVUs over 10 minutes').
In Context
- "Montevideo units of 150 indicated inadequate uterine activity, prompting oxytocin augmentation." — Labor management note
- "MVUs increased to 220 following oxytocin administration, with improved cervical change." — Labor progress documentation