Oxytocin supplement for childbirth, depression and autism

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Oxytocin supplement for childbirth, depression and autism

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Most of us know oxytocin as the love or cuddle hormone. The substance helps you to deal better with emotional and social situations and plays an important role during childbirth. Oxytocin would therefore be a possible form of treatment for psychological and developmental conditions, such as depression and autism.

Also read: What are hormones and what do they do?

What is oxytocin?

Oxytocin is a hormone that is produced in the hypothalamus and released into the bloodstream by the pituitary gland. The main function of oxytocin is to facilitate labor. Just like endorphins or serotonin, oxytocin is a type of hormone in your body that promotes positive feelings. We also produce it when we are in love and excited. That’s why it got the nicknames ‘love hormone’ and ‘cuddle hormone’.

Also read: Nasal spray with ‘cuddle hormone’ oxytocin against shyness

Oxytocin in childbirth

Oxytocin stimulates both the contraction of the uterine muscles and the production of prostaglandins, substances that also promote uterine contractions. Women whose labor starts slowly are sometimes given oxytocin to speed up the process.

Once the baby is born, oxytocin helps bring milk from the breast to the nipple and promotes the bond between mother and baby. Mothers with higher levels of oxytocin exhibit more affectionate parenting behavior: for example, they check on the baby more regularly and are more likely to touch or speak to him or her lovingly.

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Oxytocin nasal spray as a supplement

Studies from 2017 and 2021 showed that oxytocin – given in spray form to participants – can help treat autism and other developmental disorders. The same goes for mental illnesses that hinder social interaction. Individuals with autism are said to exhibit less repetitive behavior and have less difficulty establishing social relationships.

The substance is also being investigated as a possible treatment for (postnatal) depression. Oxytocin is said to stimulate feelings of confidence and calm. More generally, oxytocin provides more emotional stability. Studies are also underway looking at oxytocin as a possible treatment for alcohol and drug abuse.

Also read: Oxytocin helps people with attachment problems within autism