What is a potential risk of overusing oxytocin during labor?

Overusing oxytocin during labor poses significant risks, one of which is fetal distress. Oxytocin is a hormone that stimulates uterine contractions, and while it can be beneficial in facilitating labor, excessive administration can lead to overly frequent or strong contractions. This can compromise the fetal oxygen supply, leading to conditions such as hypoxia or acidosis, which may trigger signs of fetal distress.

In this context, fetal heart rate abnormalities can occur, making monitoring essential to ensure the well-being of the fetus. Understanding the balance between effective labor stimulation and the potential for adverse effects is crucial for patient safety. Thus, recognizing fetal distress as a potential risk of oxytocin overuse reinforces the need for careful administration and monitoring during labor.