Maternal Obstructed Labour Diagnosis

Maternal obstructed labor refers to a condition in which there is difficulty or obstruction in the progress of labor due to various factors, such as abnormal fetal position, inadequate pelvic size, or other anatomical abnormalities.

The signs and symptoms of malposition in maternal obstructed labor may include prolonged labor, failure of the fetus to descend into the pelvis, persistent back pain, irregular or abnormal contractions, and an inability to progress in the birthing process despite strong contractions.

Diagnostic tests used to assess malposition in maternal obstructed labor include:

1. Physical examination: A healthcare provider can perform a vaginal examination to determine position of fetus, assess cervical dilation, and evaluate progress of labor.

2. Ultrasound: This imaging technique can be used to visualize the position of the fetus and identify any malposition.

3. Leopold's maneuvers: These manual palpation techniques involve feeling the mother's abdomen to determine the position, size, and presentation of the fetus.

4. Fetal heart rate monitoring: Continuous monitoring of the fetal heart rate during labor can provide valuable information.

5. Pelvic examination under anesthesia (PUBA): In cases where the diagnosis remains uncertain, a PUBA can be performed.

6. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): In rare and complex cases, an MRI may be considered to obtain detailed imaging of the pelvis and fetus.