Oxytocin and Your Postpartum Journey: What You Need to Know

Childbirth is a deeply personal journey filled with emotions, physical changes, and countless decisions. Pregnant women meet with their providers regularly to discuss pregnancy wellness and birth options, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. The information presented may heavily focus on potential interventions during labor.

It’s important to remember that not all interventions are medically necessary, and some may not be supported by the latest evidence. This is especially true when considering the potential impact of medical interventions on postpartum mental health. New evidence is linking the administration of synthetic oxytocin during labor to a possible link to postpartum depression (PPD). This ongoing exploration is particularly pertinent for expectant mothers seeking to understand the intricacies of childbirth options. As they weigh their decisions, some women may find hypnobirthing, a holistic approach to labor and delivery, to be an appealing alternative.

The Essence of Oxytocin

Oxytocin, often heralded as the “love hormone,” plays a critical role in childbirth, breastfeeding, and the deepening of maternal bonds. This natural hormone facilitates labor, aids in milk ejection, and enhances maternal behaviors. However, the synthetic form of oxytocin, commonly used to induce or augment labor contractions and prevent postpartum hemorrhage, has come under investigation for its potential effects on maternal mental health post-delivery.

Synthetic Oxytocin and Postpartum Depression: A Closer Look

Recent studies have sparked a conversation about the correlation between synthetic oxytocin use during labor and the onset of postpartum depression or anxiety. A pivotal study revealed that women without a prior history of depression or anxiety, who received synthetic oxytocin during or after labor, exhibited a 32% increased risk of developing postpartum depression or anxiety. An astonishing 36% of women with a history of depression or anxiety were more likely to develop postpartum depression or anxiety if they took oxytocin. Another study echoed these findings, suggesting an elevated risk of PPD in women exposed to synthetic oxytocin during or shortly after delivery.

This growing body of research around interventions and mental health calls for a closer look at synthetic oxytocin’s use in childbirth, particularly regarding its potential effects on maternal well-being after delivery. It’s important to acknowledge, however, that research on this topic is still ongoing. The current studies can be variable, and the evidence showing the link between synthetic oxytocin and postpartum depression isn’t yet conclusive.

Systematic Review Insights

 A systematic review aimed at shedding light on the connection between oxytocin and postpartum depression offers valuable insights. The review distinguished between the body’s natural production of oxytocin (endogenous) and the synthetic version given intravenously during labor. This distinction is crucial because they may have different effects.

• Endogenous Oxytocin: The review found an inverse relationship between plasma oxytocin levels and depressive symptoms in eight studies. This suggests that higher natural oxytocin levels may be protective against PPD.
• Synthetic Oxytocin: The evidence regarding synthetic oxytocin is less clear, with only four studies contributing to this area of research. These studies did not provide conclusive evidence, largely due to their heterogeneity and limited scope.

Hypnobirthing: A Natural Pathway to Enhancing Oxytocin

Hypnobirthing emerges as a compelling alternative to help minimize the risk of postpartum depression.  Focusing on natural childbirth techniques, it aims to reduce fear and anxiety through relaxation, visualization, and deep breathing exercises.  HypnoBirthing childbirth education classes empowers women with knowledge and tools for a serene birth experience. In addition, hypnobirthing promotes the natural production of endogenous oxytocin.

The Benefits of Hypnobirthing

Hypnobirthing offers several advantages for expectant mothers, including:

• Enhanced Relaxation: By harnessing the power of relaxation techniques, hypnobirthing reduces stress and anxiety, potentially increasing natural oxytocin levels and decreasing the need for synthetic interventions.
• Empowerment: Knowledge and preparation empower women to approach childbirth with confidence, reducing fears that can inhibit oxytocin production.
• Pain Management: Hypnobirthing techniques provide natural pain management strategies, offering an alternative to pharmacological interventions that might affect hormonal balance and mood postpartum.
• Bonding: The calm and supportive environment encouraged by hypnobirthing techniques can facilitate early mother-child bonding, supported by the natural surge of oxytocin.

Integrating Hypnobirthing into Your Birth Plan

For expectant mothers intrigued by the potential of hypnobirthing to create a positive and natural childbirth experience, integrating this approach into your birth plan involves several steps:

• Education: Attend hypnobirthing classes to learn the techniques and principles that underpin this approach. We recommend live instructor-led classes rather than video lessons.
• Preparation: Practice relaxation, visualization, and breathing exercises regularly to prepare for labor. This practice is vitally important to being able to reach a profound level of relaxation quickly on your birthing day.
• Communication: Discuss your birth plan and hypnobirthing preferences with your healthcare provider to ensure support and understanding during delivery. Do this early and often. In your hypnobirthing classes, we discuss why this is important.
• Environment: Plan for a birthing environment that supports relaxation and the natural production of oxytocin, such as dim lighting, soft music, and the presence of supportive partners or doulas.

Ending Thoughts

The relationship between synthetic oxytocin administration during labor and postpartum depression remains an area ripe for further research. While the evidence is not yet definitive, the potential risks underscore the importance of exploring natural childbirth options, such as hypnobirthing, that promote the well-being of both mother and child. By empowering expectant mothers with knowledge and natural strategies for childbirth, we can pave the way for a positive birthing experience that nurtures families’ physical and emotional health.

• Moura, A. L., et al. (2019). Oxytocin and postpartum depression: A systematic review. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 10, 269. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31183322
• Women’s Mental Health. (2023, January 11). Synthetic Oxytocin and Its Effect on Postpartum Mood and Anxiety. Women’s Mental Health: https://womensmentalhealth.org/posts/synthetic-oxytocin-effect-postpartum-mood-anxiety/
• Psychiatric News. (2017, February 3). Synthetic Oxytocin May Increase Risk of Postpartum Depression, Anxiety. Psychiatric News: https://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.pn.2017.3a17

California’s SB 848: Empowering Women After Reproductive Loss

In a landmark decision that sets a new standard in women’s reproductive health rights, California has implemented Senate Bill 848 starting January 1, 2024. This groundbreaking law mandates businesses with a minimum of five employees to provide up to five days of unpaid leave for women who have suffered a reproductive loss. This includes miscarriages, stillbirths, unsuccessful adoptions, or failed assisted reproduction attempts. Recognizing the intense emotional and physical trauma these events can cause, this legislation aims to bring such experiences from the shadows of silence into a space of healing and acknowledgment.

The Hidden Grief of Reproductive Loss

Reproductive loss, a subject often enshrouded in stigma, impacts up to 20% of known pregnancies, with actual figures potentially higher. Many women suffer early miscarriages before pregnancy confirmation. This startling statistic unveils a world of concealed sorrow where feelings of anxiety and depression prevail. Beyond miscarriages, stillbirths, and unsuccessful fertility treatments are losses. These profound losses have historically lacked societal recognition and support. Senate Bill 848 marks a pivotal shift in this narrative, offering much-needed acknowledgment and support through its leave provisions.

The Evolution of Perinatal Loss Awareness

Historically, perinatal loss, particularly in cases like early miscarriages or failed fertility treatments, was often overlooked and unacknowledged. This societal oversight compounded the grief and isolation felt by those experiencing such losses. For instance, in my hypnobirthing classes, I’ve witnessed couples grappling silently with their grief.   Often, the clue they leave of loss is withdrawing into isolation due to feelings of shame and self-blame. Senate Bill 848 challenges historically indifferent attitudes by encouraging women to use leave for self-care and support.

Healing Through Time and Support After Reproductive Loss

SB 848 recognizes the fundamental need for time and space to heal after reproductive loss. The law validates these experiences by granting designated leave. This fosters an environment conducive to open dialogue and reducing societal stigma for perinatal loss.

Creating a Compassionate Workplace

A crucial aspect of SB 848 is its protection against discrimination or retaliation for employees availing reproductive loss leave. This fosters a supportive workplace environment, ensuring women can take the necessary time for healing without career-related fears. While the provision of five days may not be sufficient for all, it establishes an essential precedent for recognizing the impact of reproductive loss.

California Leading Reproductive Health Initiatives

With SB 848, California positions itself at the forefront of addressing and recognizing the challenges faced by women following reproductive loss. Most importantly, this policy is more than legislation; it symbolizes solidarity and understanding in reproductive healthcare, normalizing and validating pregnancy loss as a significant life event. Prior to the 1970’s women suffering perinatal loss were sent home to grapple with their grief alone. Providing women with support after loss is being recognized as important to their overall recovery and mental health.

Empowering Women and Families After Perinatal Loss

This groundbreaking legislation empowers women and families to take the time they need to process and heal from reproductive loss; it acknowledges the unique and often underrepresented challenges they face, offering a framework for support and understanding. I dream of a nation that supports women’s reproductive rights. California is setting a precedent for other states to follow, leading the way in changing how reproductive loss is approached and supported.

The Role of Bereavement Doulas

Legislation like SB 848 lays the groundwork for support, but the healing journey often necessitates a more personal approach, exemplified by the role of bereavement doulas. These professionals specialize in providing emotional, physical, and informational support during miscarriages, stillbirths, neonatal deaths, or other forms of baby loss. They offer a compassionate presence during these challenging times.

• Emotional Support
  Bereavement doulas provide a safe space for parents to express their grief and emotions, validating their feelings and assisting in processing the loss meaningfully.
• Physical Support
  They also offer guidance on medical procedures and physical recovery after loss, providing comfort and reassurance.
• Informational Support
  Bereavement doulas are critical in helping families navigate medical and legal processes associated with reproductive loss, connecting them with resources like counseling services or support groups.

Partner Support and Community Connection

Bereavement doulas also focus on the often-overlooked grief of partners, offering them a space for expression and emotional support. They connect grieving parents with a community of others who have experienced similar losses, fostering a shared sense of healing and understanding.

Educating and Advocating Through Reproductive Loss

Beyond direct family support, bereavement doulas educate healthcare providers and communities about the needs of families experiencing reproductive loss. They advocate for compassionate care and raise awareness about the profound impact of these losses.

Senate Bill 848 and the role of bereavement doulas together create a holistic support system for individuals and families experiencing reproductive loss. This legislation, coupled with the empathetic care of bereavement doulas, honors and facilitates the healing process, highlighting the importance of compassion, understanding, and comprehensive support in reproductive health care. Many resources are available in Placer County to assist you with your grief processing. Placer Birth Connection offers a resource page of professionals to support you in healing or call our office to get connected.

The Power of Mindset in Hypnobirthing