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Oxytocin

Overview

Oxytocin is a hormone released from the pituitary gland in the brain. During pregnancy, this hormone causes labor contractions to start. It also is released when a woman's breasts are stimulated by suckling or pumping, causing milk to move from the ducts and out the tiny holes in the nipple. This is called the let-down reflex. In the first few days after delivery, oxytocin also causes uterine contractions. They help shrink the uterus back to the size it was before pregnancy.

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    Credits

    Current as of: April 30, 2024

    Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
    Clinical Review Board
    All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

    Current as of: April 30, 2024

    Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

    Clinical Review Board
    All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.