Oxytocin

Definition

Oxytocin is a hormone produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, playing a crucial role in childbirth and lactation as well as in bonding and social behaviors. It facilitates uterine contractions during labor and helps with milk ejection during breastfeeding.

Related terms

Hypothalamus: A region of the brain that links the nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland, regulating hormones.

Pituitary Gland: A pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain that secretes hormones into the bloodstream, including oxytocin.

Lactation: The process of producing milk from the mammary glands after childbirth, facilitated by hormones like oxytocin