Oxytocin

Women who have carried their babies for more than nine months may get an oxytocin injection in order to stimulate the uterus to begin going into labor. This medication encourages the uterus to contract in order to begin labor. It is sometimes used to reduce bleeding after delivery as well.

Side Effects/Warnings

This medication should only be given to women who need to go into labor immediately for medical reasons. There is currently not enough data on the side effects of this medication on either mother or child to use it for elective induction of labor.

Some women may experience a serious allergic reaction to this medication. If you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, severe headache or confusion after taking this medication, you need medical help immediately.