What is defined as precipitous labor?

Precipitous labor is characterized by a very rapid progression of labor resulting in delivery within a short time frame, specifically within three hours of the onset of contractions. This definition is significant in the context of obstetric care, as it can lead to various risks for both the mother and the baby due to the lack of time for proper monitoring or preparation for delivery.

In labor that lasts longer than 12 hours, the situation would typically be considered prolonged labor, not precipitous. Rupture of membranes without contractions refers to a situation termed premature rupture of membranes, which is unrelated to the speed of labor progression. Finally, contractions becoming irregular does not pertain to the brevity of labor but can indicate a variety of labor conditions, including potential complications. The essence of precipitous labor lies solely in its rapid nature and the associated implications for care.