oxytocin

Question 1

Where is oxytocin produced?

Answer 1

Produced by the hypothalamus (released by the posterior pituitary gland)

Question 2

Where in the hypothalamus is oxytocin synthesised?

Answer 2

The paraventricular and suproptic nuclei

Question 3

What are the 3 stimuli for oxytocin release?

Answer 3

1.stretching of the uterus/cervix during parturition
2. suckling during breast feeding
3. social/emotional bonding

Question 4

What are the target organs of oxytocin?

Answer 4

Uterus, Breasts

Question 5

What are the actions of oxytocin on the uterus during labour?

Answer 5

Stimulates the smooth muscles of the uterus causing uterine contraction and cervical stretching

Question 6

What are the actions of oxytocin on the breasts?

Answer 6

Oxytocin triggers the milk ejection reflex which leads to infant suckling

Question 7

What is the role of oxytocin in social bonding?

Answer 7

Oxytocin enhances feelings of trust, empathy and connection, which supports maternal and pair bonding

Question 8

What are the positive feedback loops regulating oxytocin?

Answer 8

In the uterus, contractions cause cervical stretching which generates positive feedback to the hypothalamus and drives further contractions.
In the breast, infant suckling generates positive feedback to the hypothalamus to continue milk ejection