The term "dystocia" is most frequently used as an equivalent for obstructed labour, but it
covers a broad range of conditions, from labour lasting more than 12 hours to uterine
rupture, feto-pelvic disproportion or abnormal fetal presentation. Moreover, estimating
the duration of labour may be difficult, especially in settings without appropriate
monitoring technology. It is, however, accepted that if obstruction cannot be overcome
by manipulation or instrumental delivery, caesarean section is needed. The definitions
used by GBD 2000 for obstructed labour and its sequelae are listed in table 2.1.