
Oxytocin Crystals

by Science Photo Library
Title
Oxytocin Crystals
Artist
Science Photo Library
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
Oxytocin. Polarised light micrograph of crystals of the female hormone oxytocin. In women this hormone is secreted naturally by the pituitary gland. It is also manufactured synthetically in the laboratory for use as a drug. Oxytocin causes contractions of the uterus during labour, and it also stimulates the flow of milk in women who are breast-feeding. As a drug it may be used to induce childbirth, or to help to expel the placenta. Oxytocin may be given in the form of a nasal spray to help increase milk flow while breast-feeding. Magnification: x50
Uploaded
October 7th, 2018
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