Oxytocin & Endorphins - The Power Duo of Labor

When we think about labor, we often focus on contractions, dilation, and pushing. But behind the scenes, a powerful hormonal symphony is unfolding—led by two key players: oxytocin and endorphins.

These hormones don’t just help birth happen—they deeply shape how it feels and what is remembered from birth. Understanding and supporting them can lead to smoother labor, reduced stress, and even a more empowering birth experience. Let’s explore how these two hormones work together and how you can naturally support their flow during labor.

And just to be clear, this is not only for families who want an unmedicated birth! This information will also be very helpful for families who wish to utilize the pain management tools available at the hospital (and hope to time the use of those tools effectively)!

Can we get “birth-nerdy” for a moment? Yay, thanks!

Oxytocin: The Hormone of Love (and Labor)

Often called the “love hormone,” oxytocin is released during intimate moments (hugging, kissing, orgasm, breastfeeding) and yes, childbirth. In labor, oxytocin is responsible for:

• Stimulating strong, effective uterine contractions

• Creating feelings of trust and connection

• Helping labor progress naturally

• Promoting bonding with baby after birth

Oxytocin thrives in calm, safe, and supportive environments. When someone feels observed, anxious, or interrupted, oxytocin can stall, slowing labor down. That’s why protecting the birthing space is so important (and we take this part of our job very seriously). The release of natural oxytocin encourages the body to release endorphins. And when labor requires the use of Pitocin, we still recommend that our clients consider trying some of these methods to work alongside the medication.

Endorphins: Nature’s Epidural

Endorphins are your body’s natural pain relief system. These feel-good hormones increase as labor intensifies, helping the birthing person cope with the growing intensity. Endorphins:

• Diminish the perception of pain

• Induce a dreamy, altered state of consciousness

• Promote calmness, focus, and emotional resilience

In a labor supported by trust, safety, and connection, endorphins rise beautifully in sync with oxytocin. It's a gorgeous hormonal dance that allows the birthing person to go deep within (and emerge empowered).

How Oxytocin and Endorphins Work Together

Here’s where the magic really happens:
As oxytocin ramps up contractions, the body releases endorphins to balance the intensity.

It’s a perfect feedback loop:

• Stronger contractions → more endorphins → better coping

• More endorphins → more relaxed body → more oxytocin

• More oxytocin → stronger labor → the cycle continues

This beautiful balance helps you stay present and grounded, even through the most intense waves.

Okay! Thanks for letting us nerd out for a moment. Now, let’s get into it…

How to Naturally Boost Oxytocin & Endorphins in Labor

Here are some natural, evidence-based ways to boost oxytocin during labor:

1. Create a Safe, Loving Environment

Oxytocin thrives in calm, safe, and intimate spaces. Think low lights, soft music of significance (check out our blog What’s in a labor playlist? to learn how to build your own), and people who make you feel secure. Reducing stress and feeling emotionally supported are powerful oxytocin boosters.

Pro tip: Dim the lights, turn off unnecessary machines or distractions, and limit the number of people in the room to those you trust.

2. Touch & Massage

Physical touch (whether from a partner, doula, or support person) can increase oxytocin levels. Gentle massage, counter-pressure, grounding touch, or even holding hands can make a big difference.

Try: Back rubs, hip squeezes, or using a warm heat pack on the lower back during contractions.

3. Kissing & Cuddling

If you're comfortable, intimate touch like kissing, cuddling, or even sexual stimulation (yes, it's totally normal and okay!) can release a surge of oxytocin. We can be great bouncers at the door if you need a “moment”.

Try: Kissing your partner between contractions, slow dancing, or sharing moments of closeness can create a positive hormonal response.

4. Laughter & Joy

Laughter reduces stress hormones and increases oxytocin. Whether it's a funny story, a birth playlist with joyful songs, or a light-hearted moment, humor helps labor progress.

Bring a birth partner who can make you smile or a second playlist that brings you joy.

5. Eye Contact & Focal Points

Maintaining eye contact with a loved one or doula can stimulate feelings of connection and calm, naturally boosting oxytocin. Having a focal point, such as an ultrasound image, onesie, or baby toy, can help you stay grounded, reminding you that there is a tiny, squishy prize at the end of this journey.

Pro tip: Eye contact can be especially grounding during contractions—try locking eyes with your partner during breathing exercises. Pack a few items in your bag that you could focus on in labor.

6. Visualization & Affirmations

Using positive birth affirmations and guided imagery can encourage feelings of safety and trust, which support oxytocin production.

Affirmation idea: “My body knows what to do. I trust my instincts. My baby and I are working together to meet each other.”

7. Warm Water

Soaking in a warm bath or standing in a warm shower can promote relaxation, ease tension, and stimulate oxytocin release.

Consider getting into the tub when arriving at your birthing location. This can help your body get into (or back into) a good labor groove after the transition.

8. Breast or Nipple Stimulation

Gently stimulating the nipples can encourage your body to release oxytocin, helping to strengthen contractions. This technique can also be helpful during labor stalls.

Always check with your care provider before trying this method during labor.

9. Chocolate

Eating chocolate (or a yummy treat of your choice) can release oxytocin if you are a foodie or a fan of sweets.

Pack some of your favorite treats and snacks in your birth bag. And if you don’t eat them in labor, you have an awesome selection for your victory meal.

The Takeaway

Labor is not just mechanical—it’s deeply hormonal. And when we nurture oxytocin and endorphins naturally, we unlock the body’s wisdom in the most beautiful way.

These hormones help make birth not only powerful but deeply human. They shape how we remember it, how we bond with our babies, and how we walk into parenthood.

So whether you’re preparing for your own birth or supporting someone else’s, remember: the hormones are your allies. Trust the dance. And when possible, encourage it!