A computer model of an Oxytocin molecule
Oxytocin (ball-and-stick) bound to its carrier protein neurophysin (ribbons)
Oxytocin is a hormone found in mammals. It is a peptide hormone and neuropeptide. It acts on the brain. In humans it is released during female reproduction, especially during and after childbirth.
It has other effects. It encourages pair bonding, and parental behaviour. It is released during intimate moments during orgasms and even hugs. For this reason it is often called the 'love hormone'.