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Obstructed labour in Enugu, Nigeria
E E Nwogu-Ikojo1, S O Nweze, H U Ezegwui
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria. ericikojo@yahoo.com
Summary
Obstructed labour complicated 2.7% of deliveries in Nigeria, primarily due to cephalopelvic disproportion. This condition significantly contributes to perinatal mortality and maternal health issues.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Perinatal Medicine
Background:
- Obstructed labour is a critical obstetric complication with significant maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality.
- Understanding the incidence, causes, and outcomes of obstructed labour is essential for improving maternal healthcare in resource-limited settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence, causes, management, and outcomes of obstructed labour.
- To highlight the public health implications of obstructed labour in Nigeria.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of all cases of obstructed labour managed at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria.
- Data collected from January 1999 to December 2004 from accident and emergency, labour ward, and obstetric theatre records.
- Analysis of patient demographics, booking status, cause of obstruction, interventions, and outcomes (perinatal mortality and maternal mortality).
Main Results:
- A total of 4,521 deliveries occurred, with 120 (2.7%) cases of obstructed labour.
- Cephalopelvic disproportion was the primary cause in 68 women (56.6%).
- Perinatal mortality was 30%, and maternal mortality was 3.3% (4 deaths).
Conclusions:
- Obstructed labour remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria.
- The high rates of perinatal mortality and maternal morbidity/mortality underscore the need for improved obstetric care and interventions.
- Addressing factors contributing to obstructed labour, such as cephalopelvic disproportion, is crucial for reducing adverse outcomes.
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