Page 10 - The Doula Hub - Flip book_Neat

T H E R O L E O F O X Y T O C I N

WHAT DOES OXYTOCIN DO?
Oxytocin is known as the love hormone because it’s produced
during lovemaking, labour and during breastfeeding. In labour it
helps the uterus to contract effectively and move your baby
down easily for birth.

HELPFUL! HOW IS IT PRODUCED?
The pressure of baby’s head against the cervix and then the
pelvic floor produces oxytocin which helps produce strong and
regular contractions.
GREAT – LET’S GET SOME MORE OF THAT!

You can help your body produce more oxytocin by:
• Staying upright during birth

• Staying calm and relaxed

• Keeping the environment dark and intimate
• Gentle touch

• Dancing and swaying
• Nipple stimulation

• Kissing

• Verbal reassurance
PERFECT! WHAT COULD POSSIBLY GO WRONG?

Well, beware the mortal enemy of oxytocin , adrenaline. The
fight or flight hormone is key to human survival but can also
slow or stop labour if the birthing person feels unsafe or afraid.
Staying calm and relaxed helps oxytocin win the battle with
adrenaline and help labour progress smoothly and happily.