Oxytocin ( Oxt ) is a peptide hormone and neuropeptide . Oxytocin is normally produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary . [3] It plays a role in social bonding , sexual reproduction , childbirth , and the period after childbirth. [4] Oxytocin is released into the bloodstream as a hormone in response to stretching of the cervix and uterus during labor and with stimulation of the nipples from breastfeeding . [5] This helps with birth, bonding with the baby , and milk production . [5] [6] Oxytocin was discovered by Henry Dale in 1906. [7] Its molecular structure was determined in 1952. [8] Oxytocin is also used as a medication to facilitate childbirth . [9] [10] [11] Source: @Wikipedia! Oxytocin is great. It’s the “hug drug” released during breastfeeding, smelling a newborn, cuddling (with kids, SO, favorite pet, etc), hugs.. This is why the schools started hugs not drugs. This is why you give people his when they are sad, like at a funer