Merck Manual

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Introduction to Abnormalities and Complications of Labor and Delivery

By

Julie S. Moldenhauer

, MD, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Reviewed/Revised Jul 2021 | Modified Sep 2022
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Abnormalities and complications of labor and delivery should be diagnosed and managed as early as possible.

Most of the following complications are evident before onset of labor:

Some of the following complications develop or become evident during labor or delivery:

Some complications may require alternatives to spontaneous labor and vaginal delivery. Alternatives include

The neonatal care team should be informed when alternative delivery methods are to be used so they can be ready to treat any neonatal complications.

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NOTE: This is the Professional Version. CONSUMERS: View Consumer Version
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