Episode 10: Oxytocin and Adrenaline are Not Friends

In this episode of the Birth Like a Mammal podcast, Lindsay Askins - a seasoned doula, birth coach, and Mother of three -  discusses the important role of oxytocin during labor and birth. She reiterates that oxytocin is not the same thing as Pitocin, even though Mothers are told so. Lindsay illustrates the significance of creating an environment conducive to natural oxytocin flow, which is essential for a successful mammalian birth. 

Key Takeaways:

1. Role of Oxytocin: Importance of oxytocin in the birthing process and its suppression by clinical environments and practices.
2. Adrenaline’s Impact: Negative effects of adrenaline on oxytocin, illustrating the mammalian need for a calm and safe environment during labor and birth.
3. Environment’s Influence: The critical role of a supportive and non-disruptive birth team in facilitating the requirements of mammalian birth.
4. Critique of Obstetric Interventions: Discussing how Pitocin does not, and will not, work in the body the same as oxytocin. 

Quotes:

• "We are essentially asking women to allow their oxytocin to increase and function in an environment that it simply cannot do so."
• "Adrenaline and oxytocin are not friends... Adrenaline is not your friend during labor at all."
• "Adrenaline and oxytocin are inversely proportional. One cannot exist alongside the other."
• "What gets the baby in, gets the baby out!"