Diane:  Interesting you should make this observation.  I, too, have noticed 
this phemomenon.  I am so into the hormonal aspects of breastfeeding.  A 
couple of months ago, there was a report on TV and in the newspaper about 
oxytocin being called the hormone of "trust".  It seems researchers have 
discovered that if a person did a shot of oxytocin nasal spray, his sense 
of trust in those around him increased, even if the situation was not 
necessarily a trusting one.  Hmmm...does this mean we will be seeing the 
politicians outside the polling places with oxytocin nasal spray giveaways? 
It was also mentioned that if a group of people shared a meal, their 
oxytocin levels were increased.  And the people did not even have to be 
related to each other in order for their oxytocin levels to increase.
One can also assume that if a new mother has her supportive mother (and 
others) with her, her hormone levels would tend to be higher, as opposed to 
the mother being surrounded by unsupportive mother (and others).  Sounds 
like an interesting research project for someone!

Pam Hirsch, BSN,RN,IBCLC
Clinical Lead, Lactation Services
Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital
Barrington, IL   USA

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