Labour is obstructed if the baby is too big to pass through the mother's birth canal. Obstruction can be caused by an abnormality in a mother's pelvis, spine or lower body part, or for women with babies lying abnormally in the womb. Any presentation such as the baby presenting the feet or buttocks first can also lead to obstructed labour. Obstructed labour is dangerous because it can lead to death of the mother and baby or fistula. During antenatal care, obstructed labour can be anticipated and any risk factors for it identified. If a woman is in labour for more than 12 hours without being able to deliver, she should be taken to hospital IMMEDIATELY because caesarean operation may be required.
Attribution: Straight Talk Foundation