What happens in case of oxytocin deficiency? | Oxytocin

What happens in case of oxytocin deficiency?

The exact effects of an oxytocin deficiency are the subject of current research, which has not yet been completed. However, there are a number of clues as to what happens when you are oxytocin deficient: In this case, oxytocin is administered as an infusion. Therefore, low levels of oxytocin are also associated with some mental illnesses such as autism and social phobia.

A lack of oxytocin can also lead to excess Especially in these fields, however, research has not yet been completed.

  • Absent or too weak contractions
  • Severe bleeding after birth
  • The expulsion of breast milk from the mammary gland can also be made more difficult in the event of a deficiency, which can lead to problems when breastfeeding.
  • There is also evidence that oxytocin deficiency may play a role in the development of so-called postpartum depression.
  • In men, oxytocin supports ejaculation, which is why a deficiency can lead to a lack of ejaculation.
  • People with low concentrations of the hormone oxytocin in their bodies also score lower on empathy tests. They often cannot interpret the facial expressions of others as well as people with high oxytocin levels.
  • Stress reactions and
  • Lead disturbed social relationships.
  • It can also cause problems with impulse control, which could lead to pathological overweight (obesity) due to poorer control of hunger, for example.

The hormone oxytocin can be supplied to the body in the form of a nasal spray, among other things.

The name of the active substance is Syntocinon. The positive effects of this hormone are supposed to occur through this. Oxytocin nasal spray is said to be suitable as a mood enhancer and anxiety reliever.

It is also advertised that it could improve relationships and even bring about fidelity. The oxytocin effect is also said to be suitable for the treatment of some mental illnesses such as autism or borderline disorders. Although these effects seem logical due to the action of oxytocin, they have so far been insufficiently proven in clinical studies.

The effect of the hormone has not yet been sufficiently investigated to be able to conclude safely on possible applications. In case of mental illness it is important to consult a doctor, under no circumstances should you take medication on your own. Furthermore, it is often not clear which active ingredients are contained in the oxytocin nasal sprays.

In addition, an overdose of the hormone can lead to The approval of the Oxyctocin nasal spray has expired in Germany because there are insufficient data on safety and efficacy. It is therefore recommended to rely on the natural release of oxytocin through physical contact such as stroking rather than artificially administering it.

  • Oxytocin plays an important role in initiating childbirth and triggering contractions as well as in breastfeeding.
  • The effects of the hormone also include, for example, an increase in confidence, calm and well-being. ‘
  • It strengthens social bonds, such as those of mother and child or the couple bond.
  • Some studies have also shown increased aggressiveness under the influence of oxytocin.
  • Nausea,
  • Headache,
  • Cramps and
  • Lead to cardiac arrhythmia,
  • In pregnant women even premature contractions.