Oxytocin News and Research

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Oxytocin is a small but potent nine-amino acid hormone secreted within the brain, from the hypothalamus.

Emotional support in marriage associated with lower BMI and fewer food cravings

Strong social relationships, particularly high-quality marriages, may help protect against obesity by influencing a complex communication system between the brain and gut, according to new research by UCLA Health.

4 Dec 2025

New study reveals how the uterus senses force to drive labor

When labor begins, the uterus must coordinate rhythmic, well-timed contractions to deliver the baby safely.

13 Nov 2025

New insights into MDMA therapy for PTSD and beyond

A comprehensive peer-reviewed invited review published today in Psychedelics by Dr. Kenji Hashimoto and colleagues (Dr. Mingming Zhao and Dr. Jianjun Yang) synthesizes the evolving landscape of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy, examining robust clinical evidence in treatment-resistant posttraumatic stress disorder while identifying promising applications in autism spectrum disorder, eating disorders, and existential distress

14 Oct 2025

Reproductive health agencies call for a major shift in diagnosis and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage

Through landmark new guidelines released today, leading reproductive health agencies are calling for a major shift in how postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is prevented, diagnosed and treated.

6 Oct 2025

Wearable sensors track early signs of hormone-linked pregnancy changes

Research shows wearable sensors can track pregnancy hormones, offering insights into maternal health and early detection of complications during pregnancy.

17 Sep 2025

How breast milk changes from day to night and why timing matters

Breast milk's hormonal and microbial variations throughout the day may affect infant development, emphasizing the need for synchronized feeding practices.

8 Sep 2025

New insights into how breast milk supports baby’s internal clock

Breast milk is the first 'super food' for many babies. Full of vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds, it helps build the young immune system and is widely considered the optimal source of infant nutrition.

5 Sep 2025

Love hormone oxytocin found to be critical for the formation of friendships

A new UC Berkeley study shows that the so-called love hormone, oxytocin, is also critical for the formation of friendships.

12 Aug 2025

Study explores how oxytocin influences brain activity to shape social behavior

Oxytocin promotes social behaviors and helps maintain relationships. But clinical trials in patients with autism show variability in how consistently oxytocin improves these behaviors.

12 Aug 2025

Shared brain circuit drives opposite mating behaviors in male and female mice

In animals with social structures, the drive to reproduce is a complex process; governed by the brain, it's influenced by both internal cues such as hormones and external factors such as interactions with potential mates.

16 Jul 2025

Oxytocin may protect mood during sleep disruption in women

Oxytocin, often called "the love hormone," may play a protective role in mood disturbances triggered by sleep loss and hormonal shifts during key reproductive transitions like postpartum and menopause, according to a study being presented Saturday at ENDO 2025, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in San Francisco, Calif.

12 Jul 2025

Could serotonin supplements become the next hair loss treatment?

Researchers have shown that serotonin directly stimulates dermal papilla cells and promotes hair growth in lab-grown hair follicloids and human hair follicles. The findings suggest serotonin and related compounds could offer new avenues for treating hair loss, though safety and dosing challenges remain.

9 Jul 2025

Oxytocin stimulates pancreatic hormones to improve insulin secretion

A new research paper was published in Aging (Aging-US) Volume 17, Issue 5, on May 1, 2025, titled "Oxytocin modulates insulin and GLP-1 secretion in pancreatic islets."

18 Jun 2025

Intimate relationships may shield against cognitive decline during chemo

A satisfying intimate relationship may help diminish chemotherapy-related cognitive problems experienced by patients with breast cancer, a new study suggests.

29 Apr 2025

Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures: A Conversation with WHO’s Dr. Allotey

Dr. Pascale Allotey advocates for comprehensive maternal health policies, stressing the importance of women's voices in shaping effective healthcare solutions.

7 Apr 2025

Dance emerges as a powerful tool for stress relief

A narrative review highlights dance's unique role in stress regulation, enhancing mental well-being through social interaction and creative expression.

21 Mar 2025

Study links postnatal depression to disrupted oxytocin system during breastfeeding

The oxytocin system – which helps release breast milk and strengthens the bond between mother and baby – may be affected during breastfeeding in mothers experiencing postnatal depression, finds a new study by UCL researchers.

14 Mar 2025

Can sex help you sleep better?

Sexual activity—whether partnered or solo—improves sleep efficiency and reduces night-time wakefulness, according to a pilot study. The research also shows that couples who sleep together experience more synchronized REM sleep, regardless of sexual activity.

13 Mar 2025

Mice demonstrate first responder-like behavior toward injured companions

Humans may not be the only ones who aid their friends when they're hurt. Mice may do it, too, as shown by a new research study led by scientists at the Keck School of Medicine of USC published recently in Science.

8 Mar 2025

Oxytocin’s new role in delaying embryo development revealed

Oxytocin, a hormone already known for its role in childbirth, milk release, and mother-infant bonding, may have a newfound purpose in mammalian reproduction.

5 Mar 2025