[The Meaning of the Latent Phase of Labour - A Historical Analysis]

The division of the first stage of labour into the latent phase and active labour is based on the work of the Boston gynaecologist Emanuel A. Friedman in the 1950s. Since then international research and clinical practice have normally differentiated between the two. However, these concepts are not generally accepted in Germany, even though the basis for Friedman's work is to be found in the German speaking area. In an analysis of selected current and historical sources covering five centuries, the characteristics of the phases and the course of labour are described. Dividing the first stage of labour into a latent and active phase allows midwives and obstetricians to create a more specific labour management and care of women in labour.