Risk indicators for dystocia in low-risk nulliparous women: A study on lifestyle and anthropometrical factors

Abstract

We examined background information and course of labour from a cohort of 2,810 low-risk nulliparas to identify possible lifestyle and anthropometrical risk indicators for dystocia. Criteria for dystocia: cervical dilatation <2 cm over 4 h during labour's active phase, or no descent during 2 h (3 h with epidural) in the descending phase, or no progress for 1 h during the expulsive phase. After adjustments, athletics or heavy gardening ≥4 h per week appeared protective for dystocia (OR 0.63, CI 0.45–0.89), contrary to a non-significant finding of intensive physical training (OR 1.57, CI 0.84–2.93). Caffeine intake of 200–299 mg/day was associated with dystocia (OR 1.37, CI 1.04–1.80); also high maternal age (OR 2.25, CI 1.58–3.22), small stature (OR 2.18, CI 1.51–3.15) and pre-pregnancy overweight (OR 1.28, CI 1.02–1.61). No association was found between dystocia and alcohol intake, smoking, night sleep and options for resting during the day.

Keywords:

• Anthropometrical risk indicators
• dystocia
• lifestyle
• nulliparas
• prolonged labour

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.