During pain, it acts as an analgesic, and like other stress hormones, it suppresses the immune system. Beta-endorphin is also a stress hormone, released under conditions of duress and pain. Like oxytocin, beta-endorphin is secreted from the pituitary gland, and high levels are present during sex, pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding. Without the strong presence of oxytocin, labor will halt and pitocin (artificial oxytocin) will need to be introduced. It is the contractions of the uterus that help move the baby down, putting pressure on the cervix and allowing it to dilate. The oxytocin levels peak, and the secretion of this hormone helps regulate the rhythmic contractions of the uterus. It’s also responsible for triggering feelings of love and nurturing.ĭuring labor, oxytocin plays a vital role. Oxytocin, also referred to as “hormone of love” is the hormone released during pregnancy, labor, orgasm and breastfeeding. Oxytocin is made in the hypothalamus, deep in our brains, and stored in the posterior pituitary, the master gland, from where it is released in pulses. This basic chemistry forms the “hormonal blueprint of labor.” When this blueprint is disturbed, labor will not progress normally, and intervention is often needed.
Buckley spent the first several hours intricately discussing the individual hormones of labor and the role they play in creating the delicate balance for a functional birth. I am mystified that her logical connections and science are not embraced by most of the medical birthing community.ĭr. While nothing she said was necessarily revolutionary, she made everything seem so obvious. Dr Buckley, a trained medical professional, author of Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering, mother of 4 and well respected birth advocate, presented a fascinating lecture called: “Undisturbed Birth: The Science and the Wisdom.” Throughout the lecture, I found myself frantically scribbling down notes, trying to capture all the inspiring information I could. Several weeks ago, I attended an all day birth lecture with Australian doctor, Sarah Buckley.