What is the average duration of the first stage of labour in primigravidae?

Appeared in: DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

The first stage of labor is the longest period, starting from the onset of true labor pains until the cervix is fully dilated to 10 cm.
This stage is divided into a latent phase (early, slow dilation) and an active phase (more rapid dilation).
For a primigravida, a woman giving birth for the first time, the combined average duration of the first stage is approximately 12 hours.
This duration is a clinical benchmark used to assess labor progression.

Option B: A duration of 2 hours is significantly shorter than the average first stage of labor for a primigravida.
Option C: An 8-hour duration for the first stage of labor is not the average for a woman in her first pregnancy.
Option D: A 6-hour duration is too short for the average first stage of labor in a primigravida.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Duration of the first stage of labor as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the normal duration of labor stages is crucial for nurses to monitor progress using a partograph and identify abnormalities like prolonged labor (dystocia).
A partograph is a graphical record of key data during labor, plotting cervical dilation against time. Comparing the patient's progress to the expected curve helps in early detection of deviations.
Deviations from the norm may indicate the need for interventions, such as amniotomy (artificial rupture of membranes) or oxytocin augmentation, to prevent maternal and fetal complications.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: 'first stage of labour' and 'primigravidae'.
Recall the definition of the first stage of labor: the period from the onset of regular contractions to full cervical dilation (10 cm).
Differentiate between a 'primigravida' (a woman in her first pregnancy/delivery) and a 'multipara' (a woman who has given birth before).
Recall the standard average durations for the stages of labor, remembering that labor is typically longer for first-time mothers.
Compare the given options to the known average for a primigravida's first stage, which is about 12 hours.
Eliminate options that are too short (2 hours) or are more typical for a multipara (6 and 8 hours) to arrive at the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 22-41

Practise the full DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.