The physiology of labor and management of prolonged labor.
Prolonged labor is a common occurrence, but proper diagnosis is difficult, and the management is controversial. Prolonged labor can be prevented by providing the laboring woman with proper emotional support and by encouraging ambulation and position changes. The indication for and proper use of oxytocin and other measures to correct prolonged labor are discussed.
Department of Family Practice, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Quincy.
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Kruse
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007743:Labor, Obstetric / Q000502:physiology*; D007744:Obstetric Labor Complications / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D011247:Pregnancy; D013997:Time Factors