Oxytocin (Noun)
Meaning
Hormone secreted by the posterior pituitary gland (trade name Pitocin); stimulates contractions of the uterus and ejection of milk.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- Oxytocin levels typically surge during childbirth, which helps the uterus contract and the baby move down the birth canal.
- The doctor ordered PITOCIN to induce labor since her water had broken but the contractions had stalled.
- Nursing her newborn caused a release of oxytocin, allowing her to feel more attached and begin lactation easier.
- During breastfeeding, a surge of oxytocin helps release milk for the baby by contracting the smooth muscles around the milk ducts in the breasts.
- Oxytocin administered through an IV and PITOCIN ensured the post-delivery uterus contracted effectively, reducing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.