Though I am not an expert on oxytocin, it has been a subject of interest to
me.  A few weeks ago I attended a conference, and was able to hear Michel
Odent speak on Protecting the Birthing Woman.  I feverishly took notes since
I am planning on writing an article.  He said that any situation where there
is a high peak of oxytocin - such as orgasm and milk ejection - will require
that you feel secure.  (IMHO, a woman who has a history of sexual abuse may
have a very difficult time feeling secure in an intimate situation, even if
she is able to reach orgasm.)

Odent also spoke of IV oxytocin.  He said that from a chemical standpoint it
is the same, BUT it does not cross the blood brain barrier, IS NOT a "love
hormone", and has NO behavioral effects.

He also said that IV oxytocin disturbs the natural hormone release of a
laboring woman (as many of us already know!) Because of this, IV oxytocin can
also disturb the initiation of lactation.

Warmly,
Debbi Donovan, IBCLC