Infusion of intravenous oxytocin to stimulate contractions.
External fetal monitoring performed on pregnant women to assess the health of the fetus using the hormone oxytocin to stimulate uterine contractions. The pregnant woman is given an intravenous solution of oxytocin and the doctor observes the reaction of the fetus to the stress of the contractions to help determine how well the fetus will handle the stress of labor. Labor contractions tend to reduce the available supply of oxygen by compressing the placenta. A normal response to the oxytocin challenge test (OCT) suggests that the fetus is healthy, is receiving enough oxygen, and will be able to withstand the stress of labor. If the fetus is experiencing difficulties, the doctor may decide to deliver the baby early.
The intravenous infusion of ten very small doses of oxytocin in order to determine whether contraction of the uterus in response to the oxytocin will cause signs of fetal distress. The results of the test provide a basis of making a decision concerning continuation of high-risk pregnancies. Uterine contractions can also be induced by manual stimulation of the nipple. This process stimulates the hypothalamus, which causes the posterior lobe of the pituitary to release oxytocin.