oxytocin Definition
- 1a hormone released by the pituitary gland that causes increased contraction of the uterus during labor and stimulates the ejection of milk into the ducts of the breasts.
- 2a synthetic form of this hormone, used as a drug to induce labor and to control postpartum bleeding.
Using oxytocin: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "oxytocin" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The doctor administered oxytocin to induce labor.
Example
Oxytocin is also known as the 'love hormone' because it is released during social bonding activities such as hugging and kissing.
Example
Studies have shown that oxytocin can improve trust and social interactions in individuals.
Origins of oxytocin
from Greek 'oxutokia', meaning 'quick birth'
Summary: oxytocin in Brief
Oxytocin [ˌɒksɪˈtəʊsɪn] is a hormone released by the pituitary gland that causes increased contraction of the uterus during labor and stimulates the ejection of milk into the ducts of the breasts. It is also used as a drug to induce labor and to control postpartum bleeding. Oxytocin is known as the 'love hormone' because it is released during social bonding activities such as hugging and kissing. Studies have shown that oxytocin can improve trust and social interactions in individuals.
