Dystocia develops when labour mechanics become inefficient, obstructed, or unsafe. The classic framework is the 5 Ps: Factor Meaning How It Causes Dystocia Powers Uterine contractions and maternal pushing Contractions may be too weak, irregular, or uncoordinated to dilate the cervix or move the fetus downward. Passenger Fetus and placenta A large fetus, malposition, malpresentation, fetal anomaly, or multiple gestation may interfere with descent. Passage Maternal pelvis and soft tissues Cephalopelvic disproportion, pelvic shape, full bladder, cervical edema, or soft tissue obstruction can block progress. Position Maternal position Supine or immobile positioning can reduce pelvic diameter, worsen pain, and limit fetal rotation. Psyche Maternal emotional state Fear, exhaustion, pain, trauma history, or lack of support can increase catecholamines, reduce coping, and interfere with labour progress. In labour dystocia, cervical dilation or fetal descent is slower than expected or stops completely. Current guidance generally uses 6 cm dilation as the threshold for active labour. Active-phase arrest should not be diagnosed too early, because many clients progress slowly before active labour is established. ACOG describes active-phase arrest as no cervical dilation progress...