The wonderful Amy from Beloved Postnatal wrote a blog for us on the POWER of Oxytocin...

Oxytocin Magic 

Anyone who did a birth prep or hypno-birthing course during pregnancy is likely familiar with the role that Oxytocin plays in childbirth. This ‘love hormone’ is responsible for the contractions of the uterus that allow us to birth our babies, and it is directly linked to the amount of endorphins we produce during labour which are the body’s natural pain killer.

 

Knowing how crucial oxytocin is during birth, it should come as no surprise that it is equally as crucial in the bonding and feeding process between newborns and their mother or birthing parent. 

Oxytocin has been shown to boost milk supply, increase our sensitivity to non-verbal communication, and increase tolerance to feelings of monotony. During the newborn phase, lots of us will spend most of our time learning to feed our babies, getting to grips with their cries and communication, and adjusting to the new rhythm of life with a baby. On top of all the scientific reasons why oxytocin is important for transitioning into parenthood, it also makes us feel good. It is called the love hormone for a reason, because it gives us those gooey-lovey-dovey feelings that are so common when we hold our children. 

 

Any birth experience can feel traumatic, and for some of us there can be lots of trauma to deal with. Oxytocin can help us begin to feel safe after birth and allow our brains to begin to process our experience as we bond with our baby.

 

This is why I am a huge advocate for implementing an ‘Oxytocin Booster Plan’ during postpartum. This will be individual for each person, but there are some common feel-good themes which will help boost your oxytocin levels and support your feeding and healing journey. Consider the following areas, and ask yourself “what brings me a sense of peace, love and joy?”

 

We all know that skin-to-skin is a huge tool for bonding with your baby, and supporting milk supply, so creating time and space for lots of this is a great start. You may also consider if you could receive a massage, either from a loved one or a professional. If massage isn’t your thing, then some loving cuddles will have the same effect!

 

Any food and drinks that are warming, comforting and nourishing will give you an oxytocin boost. Is there a particular recipe that is your ultimate comfort food, that gives you those gooey feelings? Ask someone to batch cook this meal for you so you have it on hand for when you need a boost.

 

This is a tricky one! But rest does not always mean sleep. If you can, try and grab some extra naps. But also focus on other types of rest like meditation or reading a book with your feet up.

 

Anything that makes you chuckle will boost your oxytocin. Think comedy shows, podcasts or chatting with a close friend.

 

Keeping our bodies warm increases blood circulation which promotes healing and makes it easier for us to feel relaxed and produce oxytocin. Use warm baths, cosy blankets and snuggly clothing to keep yourself warm and comfortable.

 

Dancing, singing and listening to music can all boost oxytocin. For some it might be a relaxation playlist, and for others it might be blaring something loud and shouting along. Whatever brings you joy!

 

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to oxytocin, but the effects of boosting it intentionally during postpartum are universally beneficial. It is never too late to start prioritising the love hormone and seeing what magic it can do for your journey with feeding and bonding with your precious baby!

 

 

Amy Webb has a passion for postpartum healing and recovery and wants to see a culture shift in the UK towards full and proper postpartum education, healing and support. She is mum to one little boy and will soon be meeting her second born. Follow her on Instagram @belovedpostnatal or contact her via email at belovedpostnatal@gmail.com.