Boost Your Body’s Oxytocin Naturally For An Easier Labor Experience

When it comes to preparing for childbirth, learning how to enhance oxytocin levels naturally is an essential addition to your pre-birth checklist. This remarkable hormone is not just a fancy biological term; it’s crucial for a successful labour experience. According to Milli Hill, a seasoned mum and birth expert who founded the Positive Birth Movement, oxytocin is the hero of the day — you simply can’t give birth without it.

Milli emphasizes that oxytocin is essential for managing pain during labour. If you’re enthusiastic about enhancing your oxytocin levels naturally as you approach your delivery date, you’re in luck! Milli has collaborated with us to craft a comprehensive guide that covers everything from the role of oxytocin to nine effective, natural methods to elevate its levels as you near labour.

What Exactly is Oxytocin?

Often referred to as the ‘love hormone’ or the ‘cuddle chemical,’ oxytocin is the main hormone our bodies produce when we fall in love, give birth, and form bonds with our little ones. It’s what gives us that delightful, warm feeling we associate with those intimate moments. When it comes to childbirth, oxytocin’s importance cannot be overstated. If your body doesn’t produce adequate amounts, healthcare providers will administer a synthetic version known as ‘syntocinon’ through an IV.

By maximizing your oxytocin levels before you’re in labour, you significantly increase your chances of having a smoother, more manageable, and less painful delivery, which can reduce the need for pain relief medications during labour.

Diving deeper into the science of oxytocin opens the door to a more positive birthing experience. Knowing how to stimulate this hormone naturally can be a game-changer, especially if things start to slow down or stall during labour.

How Does Oxytocin Support Childbirth?

At the heart of labour, oxytocin’s primary role is to amplify and regulate contractions. It’s produced in the hypothalamus, a small but powerful part of your brain, and operates on a positive feedback loop — the more oxytocin that’s created, the more your body responds with further production. This cycle of happiness is especially important in the birthing process. Midwives and hospital staff often use oxytocin intravenously to support or kick-start contractions when they aren’t progressing as they should.

The NHS notes, “Oxytocin is a natural hormone that manages key aspects of the female reproductive system and is used to start or strengthen contractions to continue (augment) labour and to control bleeding after the birth of your baby.” It’s also utilized to prevent postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) by coordinating contractions that help to deliver the placenta effectively.

Oxytocin’s Key Functions in Childbirth:

• Promotes uterine contractions, critical for cervical dilation during labour.
• Facilitates the milk let-down reflex, preparing you to nourish your newborn.
• Enhances the mother-baby bond, making your little one feel secure and cherished.
• Encourages instinctual maternal behaviour in the golden hour post-birth, when you’re both getting to know each other.
• Stimulates mild contractions during breastfeeding to help deliver the placenta and close off blood vessels to prevent excessive bleeding.
• Supports the uterus in clotting at the placental attachment points after delivery.

9 Natural Ways to Boost Oxytocin for Labour

As you approach your due date, prioritizing both your physical and mental wellbeing becomes paramount. This involves getting plenty of rest, enjoying peaceful walks in nature, maintaining a healthy diet, and engaging in calming activities that bring you joy, such as yoga or journaling. These steps are not just niceties; they are essential foundations for your birthing experience.

Now, let’s dive into Milli’s top tips for boosting your oxytocin levels naturally as you gear up for your baby’s arrival.

1) Get an Early Start and Prepare Ahead

Don’t wait for the first contraction to start thinking about boosting your oxytocin levels. As you near the end of your pregnancy, create a calming environment: think soft lighting, gentle sounds, and minimal interruptions. It might be a good idea to send your partner on an errand for those last-minute items, so you can finally zone into your own space and get ready for the adventure ahead!

2) Get Comfy and Build Your Nest

Nesting isn’t just about arranging the baby’s nursery; it’s a deep, primal instinct that nudges you to create a cozy, safe space for both you and your newborn. Think of it as crafting your own little sanctuary—whether you’re at home, in a birthing center, or even a hospital ward. Gather blankets, pillows, yoga mats, and cushions to create a comfortable nest on the floor. Remember, when it comes time to give birth, you have the same basic needs as any other mammal: you deserve a warm and inviting environment where you feel secure and snug. This simple act can help bolster your confidence during labor, reminding you that you’re in a nurturing space.

3) Block Everything Out

If you’re not planning a home birth, you might feel a bit overwhelmed by the bustling environment. The last thing you need is the distraction of hospital noises or unexpected visitors. Take charge of your comfort and dive into your own bubble—bring along a cozy eye mask and some earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. These little tools can help you create a tranquil atmosphere amidst the chaos, allowing you to center yourself and focus on the birth experience.

4) Get Loved Up

Creating that ideal birth space isn’t just about pillows and blankets; it’s equally about the people who will be by your side. Think about the kind of intimate atmosphere you might want for a romantic evening—soft lighting, perhaps some candles, and a whole lot of affection. Oxytocin, often dubbed the ‘love hormone,’ thrives in environments imbued with warmth and tenderness. So, encourage your partner to be involved—whether that’s through massages, gentle touches, or just soothing words. A carefully curated playlist can further set the mood, enhancing the release of oxytocin and making the experience feel more intimate and connected.

5) Chill Out

The importance of relaxation in the lead-up to and during labor cannot be overstated. Your body is about to undergo a monumental transformation, and stress can throw a wrench in the works. Find what calms you—be it soft music, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises. It’s perfectly normal to feel anxious or overwhelmed, especially if this is your first time becoming a parent. Recognizing these feelings and actively working to relax can help you regain a sense of control. Picture the serene environment of a spa: soft lighting, gentle sounds, and a feeling of complete tranquility. Recreate that for yourself; your mind and body will thank you for it.

By embracing these practices, you not only nurture yourself but also create an environment where your baby can feel welcomed. As you prepare for this next chapter in your life, remember, you’re not alone. Countless mothers have walked this path, and it’s perfectly okay to seek guidance and support to make your journey a nurturing and fulfilling one.

As you approach the exciting yet overwhelming experience of childbirth, it’s essential to create a nurturing environment, not just for you but also for your partner. The reality is that pregnancy can be a rollercoaster of emotions—joy, anxiety, anticipation. Your partner may feel uneasy, which is completely natural. Reassure them that their primary role right now is to support you, ensuring you feel safe, relaxed, and cherished. It’s all about creating that cozy nest where you can truly unwind and focus on what’s coming. Encourage them to embrace their caring instincts, to be the protector of your little family unit during this special time.

6) Kiss

Believe it or not, a simple kiss can work wonders during those early stages of labor. Kissing not only sparks feelings of intimacy but also gets the oxytocin flowing—yes, that magical hormone that encourages bonding and can even help labor progress. Think of it as tapping into your feminine energy; labor is a time to embrace every aspect of your body, including your sexuality as you bring new life into the world. Whether it’s a lingering kiss, loving words exchanged or even a playful caress, these moments of closeness can create a serene atmosphere filled with love. And don’t hesitate to ask your midwife or healthcare provider for some privacy—you want this beautiful moment to be just between you and your partner, without distractions.

7) Twiddle your nipples

This might sound a bit unconventional, but here’s the truth: stimulating your nipples can be a surprisingly effective way to promote contractions and help labor progress. It’s okay if this feels awkward; it’s actually a common topic that many women experience, even if it’s not always openly discussed. Light nipple stimulation can release oxytocin, which is particularly handy if you find your contractions are halting or not as strong as they could be. Remember, there are no “rules” during labor—whatever feels natural to you is the right approach. So, if you feel inclined, don’t hesitate to explore this as a way to feel more connected to your body and the process of childbirth.

8) Stir up memories and feel the love

As labor progresses and the excitement mingles with a dash of anxiety, take a moment to reflect on all the beautiful memories that brought you to this point. Close your eyes for a moment and visualize those cherished moments—perhaps the laughter shared, the cozy nights curled up together, or the dreams about your future family. Sharing these memories with your partner can deepen your bond in these crucial moments. Expressing love and gratitude can create a positive energy that makes both of you feel more grounded and connected. This is your time to nurture not just your body, but also your relationship as you embark on this new adventure together.

As you eagerly await the arrival of your baby, it can be helpful to take a moment to reflect on the beautiful moments in your life that have filled your heart with love. Think back to special times with those you cherish—friends, family, perhaps a beloved pet. To amplify that warmth, consider looking at photos of these experiences; they can instantly transport you back to feelings of joy and connection. Now, channel that love toward your baby, even before their arrival. Visualize how your heart will swell the moment you lay eyes on their tiny face for the first time, and embrace the boundless love that will only deepen as you hold them close. This visualization can be especially powerful if you’re preparing for a C-section.

When it comes to the big moment—the birth—one of the most rewarding practices is skin-to-skin contact. No matter what kind of delivery you have, getting your baby nestled against your bare chest as soon as possible is a profoundly enriching experience. If things don’t go exactly as planned and your baby isn’t placed on your chest immediately, don’t stress—it’s never too late to create that vital connection. Even hours or days postpartum, skin-to-skin bonding can flood you both with oxytocin, the “love hormone.” This release creates an incredibly intimate, euphoric feeling, helping to strengthen your bond with your baby, maximize your emotions, and initiate that essential nurturing relationship right from the start.