Dear AltecSuper,

Oxytocin is a hormone that is produced in the body. It is released during the arousal, excitement, and orgasm stages of the sexual response cycle. It is also released through non-sexual physical contact, such as cuddling. It can cause feelings of warmth and relaxation and a decrease in stress. It is believed that oxytocin is associated with emotional connections and feelings of love.

Oxytocin has other functions in the body. It is released when a baby sucks on a mother's nipple during breasfeeding, helping the breast to eject milk. Oxytocin also causes uterine contractions and can be used to induce labor in pregnant women.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.