The Truth About Pitocin: What’s on the Label?
Pitocin is one of the most commonly used medications in labor and birth, but how often do we really talk about what’s on the label? I didn’t even consider this until Carol Gray was listing all the side effects in one of our craniosacral therapy courses… So I’m not the rare complications, not the personal anecdotes, but the actual, listed side effects that come right on the bag.
Understanding what’s on the label helps us make informed choices about our births. So, let’s take a look at what the FDA-approved label actually says about Pitocin.
What is Pitocin?
Pitocin is the synthetic version of oxytocin, the hormone that helps the uterus contract during labor. It’s used for two main reasons:
To induce labor when it hasn’t started on its own
To speed up labor if contractions aren’t progressing
It’s also given after birth to help prevent excessive bleeding.* While Pitocin is incredibly useful, it’s important to know what’s actually listed as potential side effects.
The Side Effects Listed on the Pitocin Label
The Pitocin label outlines a number of potential side effects for both the birthing parent and the baby. These are not just things that might happen—they are officially recognized effects of the drug. Here’s what’s actually on the label:
For the Birthing Parent:
Uterine hyperstimulation (tachysystole) – This means contractions that are too frequent or too strong, which can cause distress for both parent and baby.
Uterine rupture – In rare cases, excessive contractions can cause the uterus to tear, especially in those with a prior C-section or uterine surgery, this is a medical emergency.
Severe bleeding (postpartum hemorrhage) – While Pitocin is often used to prevent hemorrhage, it can sometimes lead to increased bleeding after birth.*
Low blood pressure (hypotension) – A sudden drop in blood pressure can cause dizziness, fainting, or even complications that require medical intervention.
Water intoxication (hyponatremia) – Pitocin can cause the body to retain excess water, leading to an electrolyte imbalance that can cause nausea, confusion, or seizures in extreme cases.
*Sometimes, if you have been on pitocin for too long, all the receptors have already been used, and it won’t work to stop the bleeding. This is an emergency! And I have been hearing about this happening more and more recently with the increase in inductions.
For the Baby:
Fetal distress (abnormal heart rate patterns) – Stronger, more frequent contractions can reduce oxygen supply to the baby, sometimes leading to concerning heart rate changes.
Neonatal jaundice – An increased risk of jaundice, where the baby’s skin appears yellow due to elevated bilirubin levels.
Retinal hemorrhage – Small bleeds in the baby’s eyes, sometimes linked to the intensity of contractions.
Low Apgar scores – Babies born after prolonged Pitocin use may have lower Apgar scores, which measure their breathing, heart rate, and reflexes at birth.
What Should I Do?!
This isn’t about fear—it’s about informed choice! Pitocin can be a life-saving medication, but it’s important to know the full picture before making decisions about induction or augmentation of labor.
If Pitocin is recommended for your birth, here are some things you can ask your provider:
Is this absolutely necessary right now, or can we wait?
Can we try other methods to encourage labor progress first?
What’s the lowest dose we can start with?
How will we monitor for side effects?
Birth Is Unpredictable…
Birth is unpredictable, and sometimes Pitocin is the right choice. But knowing the effects that are listed right on the label allows you to advocate for yourself and make decisions that align with your values, safety, and comfort.
Knowledge is power. When we understand the tools available to us—including both their benefits and risks—we can navigate birth with confidence and clarity.
Love,
Emily
