1. Oxytocin, which among other things regulates uterine contractions in labor, is produced by the hypothalamus in the brain.
2. The oxytocin produced in the brain is delivered to the receptors in the uterus in WAVES, not in a steady stream.
3. Pitocin, the artificial chemical used to simulate oxytocin to induce labor in about every 1 in 5 births, is delivered in a steady stream, not in waves.
4. Oxytocin, that natural hormone, is the "love hormone" and is part of the mix of hormones that induce mother-baby bonding.
5. Oxytocin does not cross the blood-brain barrier. It affects the brain, goes out through the hormonal system, and doesn't come back in.
6. Pitocin, when delivered in an IV to induce labor, recreates the effect that oxytocin has on the uterus, but not on the brain. Thus, no "love hormone" sensation.
Interesting.
