Disordered labor: objective evaluation and management.

Simplified techniques for analyzing the graphic patterns of dilatation and descent allow the practitioner to define aberrant labor using objective criteria for diagnosis. Six major disorders of labor are readily characterized. Once diagnosed, details concerning etiologic factors, efficacy of modalities of treatment, and prognostic outlook can be readily evolved. Programs of management are presented for each group of dysfunctional patterns based on such data. Introduction of the graphic analytic technique for diagnosing and managing labor adds a significant new dimension to our diagnostic potential and therapeutic capabilities.