Status cataplecticus leading to the obstetric complication of prolonged labor.

A 32-year-old married Chinese woman with cataplectic narcolepsy developed status cataplecticus during childbirth. It resulted in prolonged labor and required an emergency cesarean section. The patient had a history of severe and prolonged cataplectic attacks during sexual excitement but relatively mild attacks in other situations. We postulated that her susceptibility to genital stimulation might predispose her to cataplectic attacks during childbirth. Awareness of this potential obstetric complication, especially in those with a history of prominent sex-related cataplexy, together with careful planning and monitoring during the labor process may help to minimize the obstetric risk of patients with narcolepsy.