Why is oxytocin used in caesarean section?

Oxytocin is a hormone that makes the uterine muscle tighten. During a caesarean section, it may be given through a vein after birth, and the team may continue it for a period afterwards. Contraction helps the uterus become firm and helps compress blood vessels where the placenta was attached.

The medical team monitors your pulse, blood pressure, uterine firmness and bleeding. The dose can be adjusted according to how your uterus responds and what is seen during the operation. Oxytocin does not replace the other steps used to check the uterus and manage bleeding.

Tell the anaesthesia or obstetric team about heart conditions, high blood pressure, medicines and any previous reaction to oxytocin. During recovery, report worsening pain, dizziness, nausea, headache, chest discomfort or a feeling that your heart is racing.

Follow the maternity unit's instructions for drinking, walking and checking the wound. Keep track of bleeding after discharge and attend the planned postnatal review.

After birth, seek urgent medical help for heavy or rapidly increasing bleeding, fainting, severe breathlessness, chest pain, or severe headache with vision changes. Contact the maternity team for fever, worsening wound redness or discharge, increasing abdominal pain, or bleeding that concerns you.

Ask when oxytocin will be given, how the team will monitor its effect, what side effects to expect, and which changes after discharge should prompt a call. Ask how your medicines or medical conditions affect the plan.