oxytocin

Oxytocin (Pitocin) acts like the natural hormone (oxytocin) that's found in the body. This hormone plays a large role in childbirth. It helps trigger contractions (tightening of muscles) in the uterus, which helps move the baby and placenta out of the birth canal. This also helps control bleeding that can happen in the mother after the birth.

According to the 2020 National Abortion Federation guidelines for abortion care, oxytocin (Pitocin) may be used off label (not approved by the FDA) for medical abortion after the first trimester in some situations. Medical abortion refers to the use of prescribed medications to end a pregnancy. Oxytocin (Pitocin) is sometimes used when other preferred medications aren't available or shouldn't be used, but isn't preferred since it requires access to a vein for administration and there are other medications proven to work faster and better. Discuss with your provider if using oxytocin (Pitocin) for medical abortion is an option for you.

Oxytocin (Pitocin) is typically given as an injection through a vein (intravenously, IV) by a healthcare provider. While you receive the medication for starting or strengthening labor, they'll monitor your contraction pattern to get it similar to that of normal labor. They'll also check your baby's heart rate to make sure your baby isn't stressed. The medication may also be given as an injection into your muscle to help control bleeding after childbirth.

During your pregnancy, discuss with your providers about your birth plan and if oxytocin (Pitocin) is an option if it's needed. They'll help decide whether the medication can be used in your particular situation. In general, oxytocin (Pitocin) shouldn't be used in emergencies where a cesarean section (C-section) would be safer than using the medication. It also shouldn't be used in cases where vaginal delivery shouldn't happen (e.g., baby is too large to fit through the mother's pelvis, position of the baby makes it difficult to move through the birth canal). Oxytocin (Pitocin) also can't be used long term when labor isn't moving along or if you have high blood pressure during pregnancy.

During your pregnancy, discuss with your provider about the side effects and risks of using oxytocin (Pitocin). Some side effects of the medication that have been reported in the mother include nausea, vomiting, and more seriously, bleeding after childbirth, abnormal heart rhythm, and anaphylaxis (closing of the throat). Side effects reported in newborns thought to be due to the use of oxytocin (Pitocin) in the mother include poor vital signs and physical health shortly after birth (low Apgar score), as well as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes). Other more serious side effects reported in babies include slow heart rate, abnormal heart rhythm, brain damage, and even death; these are thought to be due to having more uterine movements. Your providers will monitor you and your baby closely during treatment.