The Friedman curve defines protracted active-phase dilatation as cervical dilation progressing slower than which threshold in a nulliparous woman?

• A 1.2 cm/hour ✓
• B 2.0 cm/hour
• C 0.5 cm/hour
• D 1.5 cm/hour

Explanation

Friedman's classic definitions set the minimum normal rate of active-phase dilation at 1.2 cm/hour for nulliparas and 1.5 cm/hour for multiparas; rates slower than these define protracted active phase. Contemporary WHO partograph uses a 1 cm/hour threshold as the action line. Knowledge of Friedman's original values is specifically tested in NEET PG. Option B is too fast; option C is too slow; option D is Friedman's multiparous threshold.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.