cervical dystocia
Last reviewed 05/2021
This is abnormal labour as a result of ineffectual cervical dilatation. It is a rare condition. Possible causes include:
- inadequate uterine activity
- following surgical procedures e.g. cervical cautery, cone biopsy
- trauma
- idiopathic
This condition may difficult to distinguish from failure to dilate due to uterine dysfunction - although uterine dysfunction should respond to oxytocin.
Cervical dystocia is treated by delivery via Caesarian section.