Question

Why is oxytocin given to induce labour?

Answer 1

Oxytocin:

1. Oxytocin(Pitocin) is a peptide hormone synthesized by the hypothalamus and is released by the posterior pituitary and acts on the smooth muscles (uterus) of the body further stimulating their contractions.
2. Oxytocin secretion stimulates the contraction of smooth muscles (myometrium) of the pregnant uterus for parturition (expulsion of the fetus).
3. Inducing labor or labor induction artificially in pregnant women by prompting the uterus to contract before labor begins naturally on its own for a vaginal birth by inducing oxytocin hormone externally to the body.
4. Oxytocin acts on uterine muscles and induces labor causing contraction of the myometrium by releasing more prostaglandins.

Hence, Oxytocin is given to induce labour.