All the following are the causes of abnormal labour EXCEPT:

Appeared in: IGNOU PB Bsc Entrance-2023

Explanation

Braxton Hicks contractions are the correct answer as they are not a cause of abnormal labour (dystocia).
These are irregular, non-progressive uterine contractions that occur during pregnancy, often referred to as 'false labour' or 'practice contractions'.
Unlike true labour contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions do not cause cervical dilation or effacement.
They are a normal physiological process that helps tone the uterine muscles in preparation for actual labour.

Option A: Uterine dystocia, related to the 'Powers' of labour, is a primary cause of abnormal labour. It involves ineffective or uncoordinated uterine contractions that fail to progress labour.
Option B: Fetal dystocia, related to the 'Passenger', is a cause of abnormal labour. It includes issues with fetal size (macrosomia), presentation (breech), or position (occiput posterior) that impede delivery.
Option C: Pelvic dystocia, related to the 'Passage', is a cause of abnormal labour. It occurs when the maternal bony pelvis or soft tissues of the reproductive tract obstruct fetal descent.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Causes of abnormal labour (dystocia) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A key nursing responsibility is to differentiate between true and false labour to provide appropriate care and reassurance.
Educating the pregnant woman about the signs of true labour versus Braxton Hicks contractions can reduce anxiety and prevent unnecessary hospital visits.
If a woman reports contractions, the nurse should assess their frequency, duration, intensity, and check for cervical changes to determine if she is in true labour.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept of the question, which is 'causes of abnormal labour'.
Note the keyword 'EXCEPT'. This means you need to find the option that is NOT a cause of abnormal labour.
Recall or look up the main causes of abnormal labour, often remembered as the 'Three Ps': Powers, Passenger, and Passage.
Evaluate each option against this framework: 'Uterine dystocia' relates to Powers, 'Fetal dystocia' to Passenger, and 'Pelvic dystocia' to Passage. These are all causes of abnormal labour.
The remaining option, 'Braxton Hicks contractions', is the outlier. These are normal practice contractions, not a pathological cause of difficult labour.
Therefore, select Braxton Hicks contractions as the correct exception.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 30-50

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