Management of the latent phase of labor.

1. Iatrogenic causes of prolonged latent phase such as sedation, narcotic analgesia, and epidural anesthesia should be avoided during the latent phase. 2. Cesarean delivery is not appropriate management solely for failure to progress in latent phase. 3. Multiparas in latent phase with favorable cervices should be treated with oxytocin stimulation. 4. Multiparas with unfavorable cervices and most nulliparas should be treated with therapeutic rest when they become exhausted during a long latent phase, without regard to an arbitrary time table. 5. Characteristics of latent phase in induced labors are undefined. 6. Management of latent phase in the presence of ruptured membranes should take into consideration the total clinical picture, including gestational age, presentation, and risk of infection and other pertinent factors.