Midwife Nikki replies:

There are several possible reasons why the cervix is slow to dilate or stops dilating.
It's often due to weak contractions. If that's the case, a hormone drip can sometimes strengthen their intensity. It can also be due to a previous cervical tear or surgery.
Another cause is a very big baby, so the head remains high instead of descending into the pelvis. This is known as an obstructed labour.
Whatever the reason, if the cervix doesn't dilate properly it's impossible to have a vaginal delivery so a Caesarean is performed.

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