Hormones In Birth
The hormonal process during labor is a finely tuned, powerful sequence designed to support both the birthing person and baby. Several hormones play key roles, but oxytocin is one of the most important.
What happens hormonally during labor?
As labor begins, the body releases a cocktail of hormones to initiate and support the process:
1. Oxytocin – Often called the “love hormone,” oxytocin is released by the brain (specifically, the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary). It stimulates uterine contractions, helping to thin and open (dilate) the cervix and move the baby down the birth canal.
2. Prostaglandins – These help soften and ripen the cervix to prepare it for dilation.
3. Endorphins – These natural pain relievers increase as labor intensifies, helping the body cope with contractions and stress.
4. Adrenaline and noradrenaline (catecholamines) – These rise during the pushing stage, increasing alertness and giving a burst of energy, but too much stress can release them too early and potentially slow labor.
5. Relaxin – This hormone loosens the pelvic ligaments and softens the cervix for birth.
Why is oxytocin so important?
• Contractions: Oxytocin is the main driver of effective uterine contractions. As contractions intensify, more oxytocin is released in a positive feedback loop (contractions → more oxytocin → stronger contractions).
• Bonding: After birth, oxytocin surges to help with maternal-infant bonding and encourages the first breastfeeding session by triggering the milk ejection reflex (“let-down”).
• Post-birth recovery: It also helps contract the uterus after birth, minimizing bleeding by closing off blood vessels where the placenta was attached.
How to support oxytocin naturally:
Oxytocin thrives in a calm, safe, and private environment. Supportive birth partners, gentle touch, soothing voices, dim lighting, and minimizing stress or medical interruptions can help enhance natural oxytocin release.
In essence, oxytocin is the body’s natural labor companion—promoting not just physical progress, but emotional connection and comfort throughout the birthing experience.