Oxytocin is a hormone produced in the brain, which plays an important role in facilitating childbirth and lactation, but is also found in pharmacies, in the form of capsules, liquid or spray, as is the case of Syntocinon, for example, and be used only in accordance with medical advice.
It is also known as the love hormone, for its role in improving mood, social interactions, reducing anxiety and increasing the connection between couples; In humans, this hormone is able to decrease aggression, making it friendlier, more generous and social, although its performance is often blocked by the action of testosterone.Learn more about the effects of oxytocin on men.
The main functions of oxytocin in the body are
Because of its rhythmic stimulation for the contraction of the uterus, the oxytocin naturally produced by the body facilitates the work, however, in the form of medication, is used when necessary to induce childbirth, in pregnant women whose delivery has not taken place in the expected time, such as those of more than 41 weeks gestation or when it is very long.
It should only be used with the obstetrician’s indication, and cannot be used at other times by pregnant women, due to the risk of premature labor or delivery.
Oxytocin is naturally produced by a woman’s body, due to the baby’s suction stimulation during lactation. The synthetic hormone sold in pharmacies can be used 2 to 5 minutes before each intake or before milk is extracted with the milk extractor, if the woman has difficulty breastfeeding or is an adoptive mother who helps with breastfeeding and the mother-to-child bond.
Oxytocin has a role in improving social life, in the perception of emotional expressions and sensitivity, therefore, this hormone seems to have positive effects to help in the treatment of patients with autism and schizophrenia, in the cases indicated by the psychiatrist.
This hormone can adapt the expression of emotions, reduce the feeling of stress, as well as improve mood and coexistence with people and, in some cases, help treat people with depression, intense anxiety and social phobia.oxytocin should also be indicated by the psychiatrist.
Oxytocin is believed to play a role in improving libido and sexual performance, acting alongside testosterone in men and progesterone in women to improve pleasure and interest in intimate contact, as well as facilitating vaginal lubrication and reaching orgasm.
Physical contact, not only sexual, but also through hugs and caresses, are ways to increase oxytocin without the need for medication.Discover other ways to increase oxytocin naturally.