Natural and synthetic oxytocin during childbirth and breastfeeding. Review of the literature

Abstract

The aim of this study is to provide an overview about the role of oxytocin in childbirth and breastfeeding, based on the review of studies on oxytocin. It highlights the relationship between physiological (peripheral) effects and central, psycho-affective effects. It also summarizes the known consequences of various interventions that modify the natural (endogenous) oxytocin action during childbirth and breastfeeding. Suggestions are made on how to support the endogenous oxytocin system by as few interventions as possible.