Healthy Notes

Oxytocin 🌸  📌 Introduction Oxytocin is a hormone and neuropeptide that plays an important role in reproduction , childbirth , and lactation . It is also known as the "love hormone" because of its role in social bonding and emotional connection. 🧠 Where is Oxytocin Produced? Produced by: Hypothalamus Stored and released by: Posterior pituitary gland (neurohypophysis) 🧬 Chemical Nature Oxytocin is a peptide hormone . It is made up of 9 amino acids (nonapeptide). 🎯 Main Functions of Oxytocin 1. Role in Labor (Childbirth) Stimulates uterine muscle contractions . Helps in dilation of the cervix during labor. Enhances rhythmic contractions for delivery of the baby. Positive feedback mechanism : More oxytocin = stronger contractions. 2. Milk Ejection Reflex (Let-down reflex) After birth, oxytocin helps in ejection of milk from mammary glands. When the baby suckles the nipple: Nerve signals go to the brain. Oxytocin i...