In simple words: The uterus isn't contracting strongly enough to open the cervix during labor.

Primary inadequate contractions refer to the insufficient strength or coordination of uterine contractions during labor, leading to a failure of the cervix to dilate as expected. This condition can prolong labor and may necessitate interventions to augment labor progression.

Example 1: A pregnant woman in the active phase of labor experiences weak and infrequent contractions, resulting in slow cervical dilation.Despite adequate time, the cervix fails to progress, indicating primary inadequate contractions., A woman at term presents for labor induction. Despite the administration of oxytocin to stimulate contractions, cervical dilation remains inadequate after a reasonable timeframe, indicating primary inadequate contractions., A patient in labor experiences prolonged latent phase due to infrequent and ineffective contractions, diagnosed as primary inadequate contractions.

Documentation should include the frequency, duration, and strength of uterine contractions, cervical dilation progress over time, and any interventions performed. Fetal heart rate monitoring data should also be documented.If augmentation methods are employed, details of medications, dosages, and patient response should be recorded. In cases of cesarean section due to primary inadequate contractions, the operative report should clearly state the reason for surgical intervention.Any other contributing factors or complications encountered during labor and delivery should be thoroughly documented.

** It is crucial to accurately differentiate primary inadequate contractions from normal variations in labor progress.Careful monitoring and documentation are essential for appropriate management and coding.