O66: Other obstructed labour

Obstructed labour, classified under the ICD-10 code O66, refers to a group of conditions occurring during childbirth where despite strong contractions, the baby does not descend through the birth canal. This can be due to multiple reasons - the baby could be too large, the mother's pelvis may be too small, or the baby may be in the wrong position. It primarily affects the process of labour and can put both the mother and baby at high risk. Common signs of obstructed labour include prolonged labour, excessive pain, and a lack of progress even after intense contractions. Over time, if not managed properly, obstructed labour can lead to severe complications such as infections, postpartum hemorrhage or in severe cases, can be potentially life-threatening.