How can pitocin lead to cerebral palsy?

Pitocin is the synthetic form of Oxytocin which is a natural hormone produced by a woman's body that causes her uterus to have contractions. It is often used to start a mother's labor or augment her labor. Pitocin induced contractions differ from Oxytocin contractions in several ways. This has to do with the manner in which Oxytocin, which is released in bursts, and Pitocin, which is released in a steady stream,, affect the mother's uterine blood flow. This can affect the oxygen the baby receives by reducing the amount it receives. A lack of oxygen can cause birth injuries such as cerebral palsy (brain damage).

Pitocin can also cause dangerous contractions leading to rupture of the uterus, lacerations of the cervix or post-birth hemorrhage and premature separation of the placenta. These events can cause serious injury or even death to the mother. They can also cause fetal asphyxia and neonatal hypoxia. There conditions can lead to cerebral palsy (brain damage) or even fetal death.

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