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Pitocin (oxytocin injection) is a synthetic form of oxytocin. Oxytocin is a hormone that causes the uterus to contract. It is given through an intravenous (IV) line to induce (start) or augment (speed up) contractions during labor. This article will discuss Pitocin, including its purpose, risks, and complications. Ariel Skelley / Getty Images Pitocin (oxytocin injection) is given intravenously as a method of labor induction, typically at least 39 weeks into pregnancy. You may be given medication first to “ripen” your cervix (the lower part of the uterus) and prepare you for labor. If you’ve already gone into labor naturally and aren’t progressing, your healthcare provider may give you Pitocin to speed up your contractions. Usually, Pitocin starts to stimulate contractions within about 30 minutes. While Pitocin is being delivered through your IV drip, your medical team will monitor your blood pressure and contractions. They will also monitor your baby for any signs of fetal distress (inadequate oxygen supply). Estimates suggest that about 22% of pregnant people in the United States have their labor induced, often with a medication like Pitocin. There are many possible medical reasons for labor induction. Your healthcare provider may recommend Pitocin if:
Pitocin may be administered on its own to induce or speed up labor contractions. Injectable oxytocin may also be used alongside other methods of labor induction, such as rupturing the
amniotic sac (the sac that contains amniotic fluid and protects the fetus during pregnancy). When used for medical reasons, Pitocin is typically safe and effective for both the pregnant person and fetus. Side effects of Pitocin may include:
In some cases, Pitocin may slow down contractions or cause them to be irregular. This can increase your risk of needing an emergency cesarean delivery (C-section) if your body is not ready. A C-section is the surgical delivery of the baby. The possible risks of a C-section include:
If your labor is induced and your due date wasn’t calculated correctly, you may have an increased risk of giving birth to a late preterm baby. A late preterm baby (born between 34 and 37 weeks) could have certain health and behavioral concerns, such as:
Because of the possible risks of an elective induction (an induction of labor for convenience or personal preference), you should ideally be given Pitocin only if it is medically necessary. In certain cases, it may not be safe to induce labor with Pitocin. Your healthcare provider may recommend that you have a C-section instead if certain conditions are present, such as:
While rare, some serious medical complications are possible when using Pitocin to induce labor. Severe complications from Pitocin may include:
In very rare cases, Pitocin may cause fetal distress, fetal health complications, or stillbirth. If you experience any side effects from Pitocin, let your healthcare provider know right away. They can decrease your dose or give you other medications to help to control your symptoms. Pitocin (oxytocin injection) is a synthetic form of oxytocin—a hormone that stimulates the uterus. It is given intravenously to start or speed up labor contractions during childbirth. Your healthcare provider may recommend using Pitocin to induce labor if you are more than 42 weeks pregnant or if your amniotic sac has already ruptured but your contractions haven’t started. They may also recommend Pitocin due to certain medical conditions, such as a uterine infection, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, restricted fetal growth, problems with the placenta, or problems with your major organs. Side effects from Pitocin may include nausea, vomiting, and fever. In some cases, Pitocin may slow down or prolong labor, increasing the risk of an emergency C-section. Serious complications from Pitocin, such as uterine rupture or excessive bleeding, are rare. When medically necessary, Pitocin can be a safe, effective way to induce labor. If you’re concerned about the potential side effects of Pitocin, talk to your healthcare provider as early as possible in your pregnancy. Thanks for your feedback! What are your concerns? Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
What are the complications of oxytocin?Side Effects. Confusion.. convulsions (seizures). difficulty in breathing.. fast or irregular heartbeat.. headache (continuing or severe). hives.. pelvic or abdominal pain (severe). skin rash or itching.. What is the main complication of oxytocin administration?excessive bleeding long after childbirth; severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears; or. confusion, severe weakness, feeling unsteady.
What happens when uterus is overstimulated by oxytocin?If overstimulation of the uterus occurs, not only can this adversely affect fetal oxygen exchange through the placenta, but uterine rupture can occur. Following delivery of the baby and placenta, oxytocin is commonly given in moderate doses to control uterine bleeding.
Does oxytocin cause hyperstimulation?Every obstetrician knows that oxytocin administration during labour can cause uterine hyperstimulation (tachysystole) and fetal heart rate abnormalities.
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