Oxytocin hormone

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Hormones are chemical substances created within our body meant to transfer information from place they were created to brain. They are important for numerous bodily functions and as such, it is important to always check their levels and make sure that they are produced in adequate amounts. Otherwise we might experience metabolic changes, loss of libido, mood swings and different mental issues. However, some of the hormones are often neglected. Going to a place such as the cognitive behavioural therapy london is one option while another is focusing on it at home. Truth of the matter is that each one of them is crucial for normal work of our organism. One of the hormones that is often put on the sidelines and rarely discussed is oxytocin.

This hormone is stored in the posterior pituitary gland. It serves as a neuromodulator in our brain.Unlike other hormones, which are primarily regulating natural processes within our body, this hormone has mainly social role and in some cases, it is necessary for oxytocin to be secreted in both us and other person in order to have effect.

Most people refer to it as “love hormone” or “bonding hormone”. Unlike some other hormones, such as testosterone and serotonin which are reduced after sex, oxytocin is increased creating a positive emotion in our body. This hormone regulates the relationship with our partner and it is important for monogamy and loyalty. Scientists discovered that people who have high levels of oxytocin in organism are less likely to cheat on their partners.

When woman is pregnant, people often mention how important it is to have normal levels of estrogen, progesterone and prolactin. However, almost no one mentions impact of oxytocin on pregnant women. Unlike before mentioned hormones, oxytocin is important after child birth. It is crucial for both mother and child to create a strong bond from day one. By doing so, the child will be able to socialize better when it starts growing. At the same time, it sets up a good basis for proper mental development. Sometimes, mothers are not able to relate to their child. They can’t feel anything. In most cases, this depression is caused by lack of oxytocin and inability to bond.

Nowadays, scientists are trying to counter depression with various hormonal supplements. It has been discovered that lack of certain hormones can lead to mood swings and different issues. This is why doctors started using oxytocin sublingual drops and oxytocin nasal spray as a part of hormonal therapy for depression. However, given the complex nature of the diseases, results are still inconclusive.

Lastly, oxytocin hormone is important for group bonding and group behavior. Similarly to relationship with our partner, we are creating long lasting bonds with members of our group or society. Usually, our bond is based on a common goal. If people recognize that the other individuals are willing to provide them support in achieving these goals, oxytocin starts secreting in their body and the bond is being created. This also influences certain negative behaviors. For example, people who belong to a certain group are becoming increasingly fanatic and they are willing to lie and deceive in order to protect group and other members.