Pathologic Function
dystocia Audio
dys·to·ci·a
Subclass of:
Obstetric Labor Complications
Etymology:
Greek dys = difficult + tokos = birth or labor
Definitions related to dystocia:
  • Slow or difficult OBSTETRIC LABOR or CHILDBIRTH.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
  • (dysfunctional labor) Uterine contractions (less than 3 in 10 minutes or inadequate strength) that do not result in progressive cervical dilation.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • To define abnormal labor, a definition of normal labor must be understood and accepted. Normal labor is defined as uterine contractions that result in progressive dilation and effacement of the cervix.
    Medscape
    WebMD, 2025
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.