Dystocia or difficult labor, may result from impaired uterine forces, an abnormal position (presentation) of the fetus, or a birth canal of inadequate size to permit vaginal birth.
For example - in a breech presentation the fetal buttocks or lower extremities, rather than the head, enter the birth canal first; this occurs most often in premature babies.
If fetal or maternal distress prevents a vaginal birth, the baby may be delivered via a cesarean (caedere = to cut) section (C section).
A low, horizontal incision is made through the abdominal wall and lower portion of the uterus, through which the baby and placenta are removed.
Even a history multiple C-section need not exclude a pregnant women from attempting a vaginal delivery.