Diagnosis and Management of Labor Dystocia According to the Friedman Curve

Abstract

Introduction: Labor dystocia or abnormal prolonged delivery is one of the common indications regarding unplanned cesarean deliveries. A better understanding of the diagnosis and management of labor dystocia according to friedman curve could lead to new opportunities to increase the rate of vaginal delivery. This paper aims to summarize known diagnosis and management techniques according to the Friedman curve. Method: Literature reviews were compiled based on article obtained using search engine “Google Scholar” and “PubMed” with keywords “Diagnosis", “Friedman Curve”, “Labor”,  “Dystocia” and “Management”. There were 10 articles that were appropriate for this purpose. Result and discussion: Labor dystocia is a labor complication where the labor process is abnormally slow or prolonged, hence the term abnormal prolonged labor. This involves a variety of problem which is abbreviated by three P’s, Power, Passage and Passenger. Power is defined by the ability of the uterus to contract during labor. Passage is defined as divergence between the measurements of the fetal head and the maternal pelvis that might be caused by ineffective uterine contraction or macrosomic fetus, so that result in obstructed labor. Passenger is defined as the presentation, position and fetal development that might influence the dystocia incident. Labor dystocia is one of the common indication regarding unplanned caesarian deliveries. Therefore, early diagnosis and management of labor dystocia is crucial in improving outcome in labor dystocia patients, both for the mother and the newborn. Conclusion: Labor is influenced by multiple factors related to the mother and fetus. The theories of Friedman and recent advancements have significantly impacted the diagnosis of protraction or arrest disorder. In challenging situations, timely identification and suitable management are crucial. Educating patients about labor preparation is vital to prevent adverse conditions that can lead to complications and even mortality for both mother and fetus.