Question

Why are tocolytics often used for multiple gestations? What is the most often used tocolytic?

a) To prevent preterm labor
b) To stimulate contractions
c) To induce labor
d) To reduce maternal anxiety

Answer 1

Tocolytics are used in multiple gestations primarily to prevent preterm labor. The decrease in progesterone at the end of pregnancy helps to bring on labor by decreasing the inhibition of uterine contractility. Oxytocin is the hormone primarily responsible for the contractions during labor.

Step-by-step explanation:

Tocolytics are often used for multiple gestations to prevent preterm labor. The most often used tocolytic is not explicitly stated in the provided information, but based on common medical practices, it could be nifedipine, indomethacin, or magnesium sulfate. Tocolytics are medications given to delay labor, giving the fetus more time to develop, especially the lungs, which is crucial in multiple gestations. The provided information emphasizes the role of hormones like oxytocin and prostaglandins in labor and the use of synthetic oxytocin (Pitocin) to induce or strengthen labor contractions.

Towards the end of pregnancy, the decrease in progesterone contributes to the onset of labor by decreasing the inhibition of uterine contractility, which helps to dilate the cervix and facilitate the expulsion of the newborn. The right answer for how the decrease in progesterone helps to bring on labor is 'd. decreasing the inhibition of uterine contractility'. During labor, the hormone primarily responsible for contractions is oxytocin. It stimulates strong uterine contractions that, along with other factors, lead to the dilation of the cervix and the birth of the baby. The correct answer to this question is 'a. oxytocin'.