The chemistry of childbirth

The chemistry of childbirth ✨

The physical act of delivering a baby requires immense physical strength and stamina.

Of equal importance and fascination is the magic happening behind the scenes: your endocrine and nervous systems in a beautifully choreographed dance, working in harmony to support your body’s needs during labor and delivery.

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Here’s a peak at what’s happening:

Oxytocin: a hormone and neurotransmitter with the critical task of signaling to the uterus that it’s time to contract. Aptly dubbed “the love hormone”, oxytocin promotes lactation and facilitates bonding in those early days postpartum.

Endorphins: your brain’s way of communicating pain, these neurotransmitters have an analgesic and sedative effect to help diminish the perception of pain.

Adrenaline: a hormone produced by the adrenals in response to significant stress, adrenaline has the major role of increasing stamina and physical strength.

Prolactin: known as “the mothering hormone”, prolactin increases during pregnancy and peaks in labor, preparing the body for lactation.

Approaching you due date and feeling the jitters? Surrender to the process and trust in your body’s innate wisdom ✨ you’ve got this!