O60-O75: Complications of labour and delivery

O64: Obstructed labour due to malposition and malpresentation of fetus

Obstructed labour due to malposition and malpresentation of the fetus is a medical condition that occurs during childbirth. This happens when the fetus is not positioned correctly in the womb, or presents itself in a way that makes delivery difficult, often leading to a longer and more arduous labour process. Common presentations include the breech position – where the baby's bottom or feet move down the birth canal first instead of the head, or transverse lie, which is when the baby is positioned sideways. It can also include instances where the fetus's head is not properly engaged, or where the shoulder or face is leading instead. Some of the signs of obstructed labour may be slow labour progress, abnormal fetal heart rate, excessive maternal pain and exhaustion, and lack of progress despite strong contractions. These factors can hinder the natural progression of childbirth. The woman's reproductive system is the primary system affected by this condition. It's important to note that this group of conditions does not spread or transmit, but are a result of the unique circumstances surrounding each childbirth scenario.