Final answer:
An abnormal labor pattern called protraction is characterized by slow cervical dilation despite adequate contractions, and it's treated with synthetic oxytocin augmentation to help facilitate labor.
Step-by-step explanation:
An abnormal labor pattern named protraction refers to a labor condition where there is slow cervical dilation despite having adequate contractions. The typic treatment for slow cervical dilation is oxytocin augmentation. Oxytocin, also known as Pitocin when synthetic, can be administered to strengthen and maintain labor contractions, facilitating the dilation and effacement of the cervix. During normal labor, the cervix should dilate to approximately 10 cm to allow for the baby's passage. True labor is characterized by a positive feedback loop where cervical stretching induces more contractions and the release of oxytocin, which further accelerates labor. If labor stalls, synthetic oxytocin can be used to restart the process, and this augmentation is crucial in managing the protraction disorder.