Stages of labour
Hormones during labour
Oxytocin: Known as the hormone of love, oxytocin is secreted during sex, after ovulation and during labour, birth and breastfeeding. It creates nurturing and loving feelings.
Endorphins: Endorphins are produced in response to pain and stress. Endorphins have calming and pain-relieving effects. As labour progresses and pain intensifies, endorphin levels steadily increase in unmedicated labours.
Adrenaline: Adrenaline is also known as the ‘fight or flight’ hormone. Adrenaline is secreted in response to stress, fear and extreme pain. If a woman experiences these feelings during labour, too much adrenaline may be produced which can slow labour.
More information: Hormones in labour: oxytocin and the others – how they work
In this guide:
- Baby’s journey of labour
- Hormones during labour
- Stages of labour
- First stage of labour
- Second stage of labour
- Third stage of labour
- The fourth stage