2024 Author: Jasmine Walkman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 08:29
Oxytocin is a hormone that is secreted by a specific nucleus in the hypothalamus, and from there is stored in the posterior pituitary gland, where it is released to perform its functions in the human body. Although oxytocin is synthesized by both sexes, it is much more important for the functioning of the female body. Therefore, women have more receptors for this hormone in the brain.
One of the main functions of the hormone oxytocin is to stimulate the rhythmic contraction of the smooth muscle tissue of the uterus during childbirth.
Oxytocin functions
The main factor in enhancing the secretion of oxytocin is the beginning of the expansion of the cervix. Synthetic oxytocin is very often used during the birth process.
It is given intravenously or by intramuscular injection to stimulate labor. The need to place the synthetic form of oxytocin during childbirth is determined by the doctor who conducts the birth.
Oxytocin has a direct effect on the smooth muscles of the uterus, increasing the duration and strength of contractions. As the cervix dilates, so does the sensitivity to this hormone. The action of oxytocin continues after birth, helping the recovery of the uterus and provoking lactation.
An important condition for the use of synthetic oxytocin to stimulate childbirth is the readiness of the cervix itself. The muscles must be sufficiently elastic. The action of the hormone is effective when the expansion of the cervix is at least 6 cm.
The dosage of synthetic oxytocin must be in accordance with the general condition of the mother. The application of oxytocin is performed when the first stage of labor is prolonged and no rhythmic uterine contractions are established.
Oxytocin is also applied in cases when leakage of amniotic fluid is observed and 4 hours after that the beginning of active labor is not reported.
Oxytocin can also be used in labor that has already begun, in which no enlargement of the cervix is observed or it is less than 1 cm per hour. It is possible to apply oxytocin in case the contractions weaken or disappear.
The next case in which it applies oxytocin is aimed at prevention and treatment of uterine bleeding and stimulation of lactation.
Let's also pay attention to the functions of oxytocin in men. In them, it facilitates the transfer of semen into the reproductive system and has an overall impact on their sexual behavior. Experts believe that the emotional attachment of the stronger sex is associated with this hormone.
Oxytocin receptors are located in the kidneys, bone and cardiovascular system, muscles and pancreas. This means that the effects of oxytocin in men are not limited to the reproductive system.
An important fact for active athletes is that this hormone stimulates the absorption of glucose in muscle cells, which in turn helps the body recover after heavy training.
By reducing cortisol levels in the body, oxytocin can reduce the symptoms of stress and fatigue, as well as increase the working capacity of the brain and muscles.
Harm from oxytocin
The application of oxytocin is completely contraindicated in all cases in which a normal birth is impossible and there are indications for cesarean section.
Synthetic hormone should not be used in rhesus conflict between the fetus and the mother; partial detachment of the placenta and premature birth; cervical cancer; renal failure of the mother; retardation of fetal development; mismatch between the size of the baby's head and the mother's pelvis.
When signs of fetal hypoxia are found, oxytocin should be used with extreme caution and, if possible, another method should be chosen to stimulate labor.
Oxytocin should also be used with caution in multiple pregnancies, as the risk of hypoxia is much higher than in singleton pregnancies.
Experts recommend that couples be more careful about sex during the last months of pregnancy, because after sex the levels of natural oxytocin increase, which can cause contractions and premature birth. Therefore, it is believed that at the end of pregnancy, sex is one of the natural ways to stimulate childbirth.
