Oxitocina, también conocida como la "hormona del amor", es una hormona producida en el cerebro que desempeña un papel importante en la regulación de las emociones y el comportamiento social. Se libera en situaciones de intimidad y afecto, como durante el parto, la lactancia materna y las interacciones sociales positivas. La oxitocina también está relacionada con la formación de vínculos afectivos entre las personas.

Oxytocin, also known as the "hormone of tenderness," is responsible for creating the strongest emotional bond between mother and child. The endocrine system produces this substance during positive emotional interactions and is present in all acts of love: in a hug, a gaze, and even a kiss.

During pregnancy, oxytocin reaches its highest levels in order to increase the absorption of nutrients, reduce stress, and conserve energy.

Functions of oxytocin

• This hormone triggers labor by creating contractions that dilate the cervix and facilitate the baby's passage through the birth canal. High levels of oxytocin during labor also benefit the baby by protecting its brain cells during birth, deactivating them to consume less oxygen. In the minutes following birth, both the mother and baby are immersed in a hormonal "calm and connection" cocktail, which can be seen, felt, and even smelled. During this time, oxytocin production increases through eye contact and skin-to-skin contact.
• The function of high levels of the "love hormone" is for the mother and baby to recognize and fall in love with each other. This is a mechanism present in all mammals to ensure the care of offspring.
• Breastfeeding helps maintain high levels of oxytocin as this hormone is responsible for the milk being released from the mammary gland when the baby suckles.
• The presence of oxytocin in a woman's body after giving birth is associated with a greater ability to respond to the newborn's needs, as well as a lower risk of postpartum depression.

Parents also produce oxytocin

The instinct of love and desire for protection also occurs naturally in men, although to a lesser extent. Various studies show that a father's oxytocin levels increase towards the end of his partner's pregnancy. Additionally, when the father spends a significant amount of time with the baby, the hormone encourages him to be involved in the child's care and increases with physical contact through hugs.

Scientific facts about oxytocin

Oxytocin is a super powerful hormone produced in the pituitary gland and its secretion is regulated by cells in the hypothalamus, a gland located in the center of the brain. The hypothalamus sends nerve impulses that propagate through a network of hormones until reaching the brain. Oxytocin can be released through a caress, a kiss, or a hug. Interestingly, its levels increase in the body when consuming chocolate.