hypertonic uterine action
Last reviewed 05/2021
In this condition the contractions are too frequent and there is a high resting tone in the uterus and the contractions are excessively painful.
This condition may result in maternal exhaustion or foetal hypoxia.
The strength of the contractions may be reduced by the use of an epidural. Analgesics such as morphine and pethidine may also reduce the contractions but these drugs may also cause respiratory depression of the foetus. If there is evidence of foetal distress or the development of maternal exhaustion then caesarian section may be necessary.