LABOR ANALGESIA AND UTEROTONIC DRUGS IN MODERN OBSTETRICS: BALANCING PAIN RELIEF, MATERNAL CHOICE AND HEMORRHAGE PREVENTION

Background: Safe childbirth requires both humane pain relief and effective prevention ofpostpartum hemorrhage. Objective: This article examines labor analgesia and uterotonic drugs ascomplementary components of intrapartum and postpartum care. Methods: WHO recommendations,ACOG guidance and postpartum hemorrhage evidence were reviewed. Results: Epidural, opioid,relaxation and manual techniques are recognized options for labor pain relief depending onpreference and context; uterotonics, especially oxytocin where appropriate, reduce hemorrhage risk.Discussion: The main clinical challenge is not choosing between comfort and safety, but integratinginformed consent, monitoring and timely action. Conclusion: Pain relief and uterotonic preventionshould be taught together as parts of respectful, evidence-based maternity care