Which medication is a first-line uterotonic used in postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony?

Which medication is a first-line uterotonic used in postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony?

• A. Magnesium sulfate
• B. Oxytocin
• C. Terbutaline
• D. Furosemide

Answer: (B)

Oxytocin is the first-line uterotonic used to treat postpartum hemorrhage caused by uterine atony. It directly stimulates uterine smooth muscle contractions, increasing uterine tone and helping compress exposed placental vessels to stop the bleeding. Since atony is the most common cause of PPH, starting with a medication that promotes contraction quickly reduces ongoing blood loss and stabilizes the patient. Magnesium sulfate and terbutaline are tocolytics; they relax the uterus, which would worsen atony and increase bleeding. Furosemide is a diuretic and does not address uterine contraction or hemorrhage.

Oxytocin is the first-line uterotonic used to treat postpartum hemorrhage caused by uterine atony. It directly stimulates uterine smooth muscle contractions, increasing uterine tone and helping compress exposed placental vessels to stop the bleeding. Since atony is the most common cause of PPH, starting with a medication that promotes contraction quickly reduces ongoing blood loss and stabilizes the patient.

Magnesium sulfate and terbutaline are tocolytics; they relax the uterus, which would worsen atony and increase bleeding. Furosemide is a diuretic and does not address uterine contraction or hemorrhage.