What is the primary effect of tocolytics on labor?

Tocolytics are medications specifically designed to inhibit or stop the uterus from contracting, effectively delaying premature labor. Their primary purpose is to provide a window of time to administer additional treatments, such as steroids for fetal lung development, or to transport the mother to a facility equipped to handle premature deliveries.

By relaxing the smooth muscle of the uterus, tocolytics can help prolong the pregnancy for a certain period, which is crucial for improving outcomes for the newborn. This action directly addresses the challenge of premature labor by aiming to prevent further contractions, thereby stopping or slowing down the labor process.