Which medication is typically prescribed for a woman at 29 weeks of pregnancy experiencing uterine contractions?

Indomethacin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can be used in specific cases to inhibit uterine contractions, particularly in the setting of preterm labor. At 29 weeks of pregnancy, if a woman is experiencing uterine contractions that suggest preterm labor, a medication like indomethacin may be considered to manage those contractions and help prolong the pregnancy.

Indomethacin works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are mediators that can stimulate contractions in the uterus. By reducing prostaglandin synthesis, indomethacin can decrease the intensity and frequency of contractions, making it a viable option for certain cases of preterm labor.

In contrast, magnesium sulfate is often used for neuroprotection of the fetus and can also relax the uterus, but it is more commonly administered to prevent neurological complications rather than simply to stop contractions. Oxytocin is used to induce labor and promote contractions, which is counterproductive in the case of preterm labor. Terbutaline, while a tocolytic agent that can also be used to stop contractions, may carry risks such as maternal tachycardia and is generally used when there is a specific indication for its use, making