Augmentation of labor
Augmentation of Labor
Augmentation of labor (pronunciation: awg-men-TAY-shun of LAY-bor) is a medical intervention used to stimulate or enhance uterine contractions during childbirth when labor is not progressing as expected.
Etymology
The term 'augmentation' is derived from the Latin word 'augmentare', meaning 'to increase', and 'labor' from the Latin 'laborare', meaning 'to work'. Thus, 'augmentation of labor' essentially means 'increasing the work of labor'.
Definition
Augmentation of labor is a procedure that is often used when labor is progressing too slowly or has stalled. This can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as weak or irregular contractions, or the baby's position in the womb. The goal of labor augmentation is to stimulate stronger and more regular contractions to help the baby move through the birth canal.
Methods
There are several methods used for the augmentation of labor, including:
- Amniotomy: This involves breaking the mother's water (amniotic sac) to stimulate contractions.
- Oxytocin administration: Oxytocin, a hormone that causes contractions, is given intravenously to the mother.
- Cervical ripening agents: These are used to soften and dilate the cervix, making it easier for the baby to pass through.
Related Terms
- Induction of labor: This is the process of stimulating labor artificially before it has started naturally.
- Cesarean section: This is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby when vaginal delivery is not possible or safe.
- Epidural anesthesia: This is a type of pain relief used during labor and delivery.
Risks and Complications
Like any medical intervention, augmentation of labor carries some risks and potential complications. These may include overstimulation of the uterus, infection, fetal distress, and increased likelihood of needing a cesarean section.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Augmentation of labor
- Wikipedia's article - Augmentation of labor
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski