Psychology of intimacy

Oxytocin

Alsothe love hormonethe cuddle hormonebonding hormonelove hormone

Definition

Oxytocin is a hormone and brain signalling chemical involved in childbirth, breastfeeding and social bonding, often nicknamed the love or cuddle hormone.

At a glance

  • Oxytocin is produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland.
  • It triggers contractions during labour and milk let-down during breastfeeding.
  • It is released during affectionate touch and orgasm.
  • Its effects in humans depend heavily on context, so the love hormone nickname oversimplifies.
  • Claims that oxytocin sprays or supplements build love are not supported by strong evidence.

In detail

Oxytocin is produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland. It triggers contractions during labour and the let-down of milk, and it is released during affectionate touch and orgasm. Animal studies, especially on prairie voles, linked it to pair bonding.

The nickname oversimplifies. In humans oxytocin's effects depend heavily on context and on the person; it can increase trust toward people we see as part of our group while also sharpening wariness of outsiders. Claims that oxytocin sprays or supplements build love are not supported by strong evidence.

In a sentence

  • The midwife explained that oxytocin is the hormone behind contractions.
  • People call oxytocin the cuddle hormone, but the science is more complicated than that.

Where the word comes from

The name comes from Greek words meaning swift birth. Henry Dale described its effect on the uterus in 1906, and Vincent du Vigneaud first synthesised it in the 1950s, work recognised with a Nobel Prize in 1955.

Common questions

Is oxytocin really the love hormone?

It plays a part in bonding, and animal studies linked it to pair bonding, but in humans its effects depend strongly on the person and the situation. It can increase trust toward people seen as part of one's group while sharpening wariness of outsiders.

Do oxytocin sprays or supplements work?

There is no strong evidence that commercially sold oxytocin products build love or attraction. Anyone considering hormones for a health reason should talk to a clinician.

Related terms