What is Oxytocin?

• a hormone released by the pituitary gland
• highest doses of oxytocin released during labour, levels rises as baby makes it’s way through the birth canal
• oxytocin peaks with the expulsion of the placenta after the baby is born

How is Oxytocin released?

• with feeling calm, loving and healing feelings toward your baby
• it's nicknamed nature's "forget me not"

Why we need Oxytocin?

• stimulates the uterus to contract to birth a baby
• facilitates breastfeeding
• critical player in mom and baby attachment
• the release of oxytocin brings on loving close feelings in both mom and baby
• it stimulates the breasts to "letdown" milk, for baby to be nourished
• the more oxytocin you have the happier you are, less chance of postpartum depression
• reduces a woman's chance of late postpartum hemorrhage after baby is born vaginally
• helps the uterus return to prepregnant size from uterine contractions (after pains)

When will I experience the highest levels of Oxytocin?

• the highest levels of oxytocin you will experience in life are with your baby the hour following a vaginal birth
• next highest level is attained during breastfeeding

How do I get more Oxytocin?

• spend the first hour of baby's life uninterupted, skin to skin contact
• baby can massage, lick or nuzzle mom’s nipple to stimulate "letdown" of milk
• being close cuddling and kissing your baby
• skin to skin with baby
• eye contact with baby

Does anything inhibit Oxytocin’s release?

• stress (the stress hormone cortisol is the opposite of oxytocin)
• feeling unsafe or uncomfortable
• not breastfeeding
• not having close (preferably) skin to skin contact with baby
• not being with your baby

Can everyone experience Oxytocin's effects?

• yes including men, a good way is through pleasant rhythmic touch, like hugging
• higher oxytocin levels can be enjoyed after a good satisfying meal, whether it's a date, family dinner, party with friends or a business meeting