Oxytocin and Vasopressin

Oxytocin (OXT) and Arginine Vasopressin (AVP) are hormones that are released from the posterior pituitary gland in the brain. They are released during sexual activity and in large quantities during orgasm. They are implicated in giving the experience a quality of satisfaction. It is also an important component of the endocrine stress response. They are important in regulating fluid homeostasis and blood pressure.

Builds Trust and Attachment

Oxytocin is typically remembered for the effect it has on prosocial behaviors, such as its role in facilitating trust and attachment between individuals (Grillon, Krimsky et al, 2013). Experiments have shown that men who were administered Oxytocin displayed a higher level of trust and a reduction of fear in risky situations.

Pair Bonding

Vasopressin may be involved in protecting the mate and being aggressive toward other males. It plays an important role in social behavior, sexual motivation and pair bonding, as well as maternal responses to stress (Insel, 2010).


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