Labor and Birth Hormones: Simplified
Have you heard about the “hormone cocktail” that happens during labor and birth and thought…. what does that even mean?
Let me lay it out for you so simply that you’ll be able to remember when you actually go into labor!
Hormones are incredibly important when it comes to labor and birth, in fact they are what make it all happen! They cause labor to start, open your cervix, bring baby down, push baby out, help with breastfeeding, all of it!
Here’s the quick run down:
Oxytocin (the star of the show!)
Oxytocin is what helps your uterus contract, helps you bond with your baby, helps you feel loved and safe, helps to prevent excessive bleeding postpartum, helps prevent postpartum depression, and encourages endorphins (more on that next)
Endorphins
Endorphins are your pain relievers! They can also help minimize any other negative feelings like stress and anxiety.
Melatonin
Melatonin helps increase oxytocin and endorphins to make for a more comfortable labor experience. It also helps initiate labor.
Prolactin
Prolactin also increases oxytocin and endorphins, as well as helping milk and colostrum production!
Adrenaline
Adrenaline decreases blood going to your uterus which slows contractions and labor. It can potentially cause more pain. If you are feeling the "fight or flight" feelings that could mean that you do not feel safe enough to produce oxytocin and continue with labor... so you may need to adjust your location, support team, thoughts, etc.
As I’m sure you noticed, Oxytocin helps the others, and the others all depend on and support Oxytocin! (If you watch the show New Girl, Oxytocin in the Jess!)
So, how can you increase the oxytocin in your birth space? (because by doing so you will help everything to run more smoothly)
Oxytocin is nicknamed “The Love Hormone” because it’s all about calmness, safety, and love! Here are some idea for boosting your Oxytocin vibes:
-Decline unwanted interventions
-Play music or affirmations
-Dim the lights and use twinkle lights
-Be comfortable (what you’re wearing, doing, ect)
-Diffuse your favorite oils
-Dance or cuddle with your partner
-Kiss and hug your partner
Anything that helps you personally feel loved, safe, and calm.
To learn more about how to have an ecstatic physiological birth- check out my birth preparation program, Birth Academy. It’s got all you need!