Hormones of Attachment

by Penny Shelton MD
BirthLink Board Member

Awe, mystery, and respect. These words express what I have felt during the life experiences that have allowed for a close-up view of pregnancy, labor, birth and breastfeeding, both with family members and with others who have invited me to participate in their process. I have been amazed many times as I witnessed the power of the process. Only recently have I read an article that explained adequately the measurable substances that provide support for moms and their babies everywhere during labor. Oxytocin, beta-endorphon, epinephrine, norepinephrine and prolactin each have their own role to play. Sarah J Buckley MD wrote a beautiful article entitled “Ecstatic Birth, The Hormonal Blueprint of Labor,” based largely on her own research.

I spent four years in a group, as an attending Family Practice physician, caring for and supporting families in clinic and during childbirth, both in home and hospital settings in the Chicago area. During the 275 births I attended, I had a 6% Cesarean section rate and no maternal or child fatalities.

Healthcare providers must respect and support normalcy and natural capability first and foremost, intervening only when necessary. Ecstasy? Yes, ecstasy. I witnessed this more than once as women chose over and over to have the type of birth they preferred. Some women choose to have a normal physiologic birth without an epidural or other unnecessary intervention. Their joy was evident.

To locate the above mentioned article go to: www.sarahjbuckley.com/articles/ecstatic-birth.htm.
Dr Penny is practicing in Ohio at this time. We miss her!