Table 4.

Effects of exogenous oxytocin by cause of labor dystocia

Phenotype	Anticipated response to oxytocin augmentation	Possible negative effects of oxytocin ugmentation
Signaling issues/reduced uterine contraction preparation	Expected to increase contraction force, frequency, duration, and coordination Increases gap junction formation	No response from a molecularly unprepared uterus
Relative CPD/fetal malposition	Expected to increase contraction force and coordination Increased contractions encourages fetal rotation and flexion of the fetal head	Overtime if the malposition does not resolve and in the case of true CPD, uterus may fatigue from ineffective contractions despite augmentation
Infection and metabolic fatigue	In the presence of mild fatigue processes, oxytocin augmentation increases contractility Depending on the level of fatigue, cervical dilation may progress sufficiently to allow for vaginal birth	If infection or fatigue is unresolved, oxytocin augmentation may exacerbate fatigue processes and decrease contractility Increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage

CPD cephalopelvic disproportion