As an expectant mother, you may also be a little scared and curious about childbirth, right? Sometimes, even after a long time since labor has started, there are times when the uterus does not contract properly. Other times, even when the due date has arrived, labor may not start at all. In such cases, a special medicine called oxytocin is used by doctors to help with childbirth. Many mothers get a little scared when they hear this name. But when you know exactly what it is, why it is given, and what can happen with it, that fear disappears. So let's talk about it today.
What is this Oxytocin?
Simply put, oxytocin is a hormone naturally produced in our bodies. It is also called the "love hormone." It is the same hormone that helps the uterus contract (squeeze) during childbirth and helps milk flow when breastfeeding.
However, sometimes the amount of oxytocin produced by the body is not enough. That's when you are given synthetic oxytocin as an injection. This has two main purposes:
1. Initiating or accelerating labor: If the uterus does not contract properly after a long time since labor has started, this medicine is given to make it work properly. It is also used to induce labor if labor needs to be accelerated due to some medical reasons.
2. Stopping excessive bleeding after delivery: Sometimes after the baby is born, the uterus does not contract properly, which can cause excessive bleeding. This is a very dangerous condition. So to prevent or treat it, this oxytocin injection is given to help the uterus contract properly and stop the bleeding.
In Sri Lankan hospitals, this is most commonly seen under the brand name `(Pitocin)`.
What are the things you need to tell the doctor before giving him this medicine?
Oxytocin is not a one-size-fits-all medication. Your doctor will need to know your complete medical history before deciding to prescribe it. Therefore, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
| Situation to be reported | Description (example) |
|---|---|
| Risks of natural childbirth | If vaginal delivery is risky due to reasons such as cervical cancer, an active genital herpes infection, or the baby's head being larger than the mother's pelvis. |
| Position of the baby, placenta, or umbilical cord | If the baby is breech, the placenta is located low in the uterus (placenta previa), or there is a problematic position of the umbilical cord. |
| Previous uterine surgeries | If you have previously undergone a cesarean section or other surgery on the uterus. |
| Multiple pregnancies | If you have given birth to children several times before (usually more than 5). |
| Overstimulation of the uterus | If the uterus is already very tight or has frequent contractions. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to oxytocin or any other medicine, food, or preservative. |
How is oxytocin injection given and monitored?
This is not a medicine to take at home. It is always given in a hospital or clinic. It is usually given slowly through a saline solution (intravenous infusion).
The most important thing is that while you are being given this medicine, the doctors and nursing staff will be monitoring both you and your baby very closely. The baby's heartbeat will be continuously monitored using a CTG machine. They will also be constantly checking things like how your uterus is contracting and your blood pressure.
Since this is given under medical supervision, the chances of an overdose are very low. However, if such an overdose does occur, the hospital staff will take immediate action. In such a case, they will inform the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or the nearest Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) and seek necessary advice.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
If you are taking medication for other conditions, it is essential to inform your doctor about that as well, as some medications can interact with oxytocin.
- Other medications that open the cervix or contract the uterus (e.g., Dinoprostone, prostaglandin E2)
- Some medications taken for high blood pressure
- Drugs used to provide anesthesia (numbness) during surgery
Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including traditional Ayurvedic medicines, vitamins, and supplements.
Possible side effects of oxytocin
Like any medicine, oxytocin can have some side effects. But not everyone will experience them. And you don't need to worry because you will be under constant supervision in the hospital. The important thing is to be aware.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that you should report to your doctor or nurse immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Changes in heart rate | Heartbeat is very fast, irregular, dizziness, chest pain. |
| Heavy bleeding | Heavy vaginal bleeding after childbirth. |
| Side effects that are usually not cause for concern, but should be reported if they persist | |
| Nausea | Feeling like your stomach is churning, feeling like you're about to vomit. |
| Vomiting | Vomiting. |
Remember, the medical team is paying close attention to whether the uterus is contracting too strongly when giving this medicine or whether the baby is having any discomfort. If there is any problem, they will stop giving the medicine immediately and take the necessary steps. So don't be afraid.
Take-Home Message
- Oxytocin is a very important drug that helps with childbirth, contracts the uterus, and stops bleeding after childbirth.
- This medicine is always given in a hospital, under medical supervision.
- Tell your doctor about your health conditions, other medications you take, and allergies without hiding anything.
- You and your baby will be monitored very closely while oxytocin is being given, so don't be unnecessarily scared.
- Notify medical staff immediately if you experience any severe side effects such as difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, or excessive bleeding.
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