THE oxytocin is often called hormone of love.But why does she receive this denomination? What is the role of oxytocin in our body? That's the subject of our text!
→ What is oxytocin?
Oxytocin is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus and released from the neurohypophysis. It is made up of nine amino acids and has a structure very similar to vasopressin (also called antidiuretic hormone).
Read too: Love's chemistry
→ Oxytocin Functions
Oxytocin has a number of functions related to our reproduction, such as the secretion of milk by the mammary glands and the facilitation of smooth muscle contractions of the uterus at the time of delivery. Because of this last property, oxytocin is frequently used in obstetric practice. Its administration at the time of delivery increases the activity of the uterine muscles and favors normal delivery.
Oxytocin is related to milk ejection
Oxytocin is also linked to bond between mother and child and the bond between couples. We can also mention that oxytocin, along with other neurotransmitters,
decreases anxiety and stress responses in social interactions, has beneficial effects on interactions social in people with schizophrenia and autism and ensures better satisfaction of men and women in relationships sexual. It is also related to the development of trust, generosity and empathy.Do not stop now... There's more after the advertising ;)
→ Why is oxytocin called the love hormone?
Oxytocin is also called the love hormone.
Oxytocin, together with other hormones, is associated with sexual pleasure, being found in a greater amount during orgasm. This hormone, when administered, has increased the feeling of arousal. Furthermore, there is evidence that the hormone is associated with the social behavior, being related to our emotions. This hormone is responsible for bringing people together and forming bonds. Because of these properties, it is no wonder that oxytocin has been recognized as the hormone of love.
By Ma. Vanessa Sardinha dos Santos
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
SANTOS, Vanessa Sardinha dos. "Oxytocin: the love hormone?"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/biologia/ocitocina-hormonio-amor.htm. Accessed on June 27, 2021.
