
S2 EP: 23 Dr Sarah Buckley - Oxytocin & Syntocinon
Explicit content warning
11/19/24 • 88 min
In this episode, we sit down with the remarkable Dr. Sarah Buckley to explore the fascinating world of oxytocin and syntocinon.
Join us as we dive into the mechanics of oxytocin and how the body naturally releases hormones for labour and birth. Dr. Buckley discusses the history of synthetic oxytocin (syntocinon) and its integration into the maternity system, as well as the impacts of syntocinon, including the hormonal gaps that can arise with various interventions.
We also chat about one of Dr. Buckley’s recent papers, which investigates whether syntocinon crosses into the placenta and compares oxytocin levels between physiological and induced labour. Whether you're a parent, healthcare professional, or simply curious about the birthing process, this episode provides valuable insights into the critical role of hormones in childbirth.
Links:
- Dr Sarah Buckley's Website
- Research papers
- Maternal and newborn plasma oxytocin levels in response to maternal synthetic oxytocin administration during labour, birth and postpartum
@homebirthstoriesaustralia
Support the show by buying us a coffee! Please be advised that this podcast may contain explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.
The information, statistics, and research presented in this podcast are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. All information discussed can be found online and is provided in the links in the show notes. It is always recommended to conduct your own research and make informed decisions. We advise you to discuss any topics or concerns with your healthcare provider. While we strive to incorporate the most up-to-date research in our episodes, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information discussed on the show.
In this episode, we sit down with the remarkable Dr. Sarah Buckley to explore the fascinating world of oxytocin and syntocinon.
Join us as we dive into the mechanics of oxytocin and how the body naturally releases hormones for labour and birth. Dr. Buckley discusses the history of synthetic oxytocin (syntocinon) and its integration into the maternity system, as well as the impacts of syntocinon, including the hormonal gaps that can arise with various interventions.
We also chat about one of Dr. Buckley’s recent papers, which investigates whether syntocinon crosses into the placenta and compares oxytocin levels between physiological and induced labour. Whether you're a parent, healthcare professional, or simply curious about the birthing process, this episode provides valuable insights into the critical role of hormones in childbirth.
Links:
- Dr Sarah Buckley's Website
- Research papers
- Maternal and newborn plasma oxytocin levels in response to maternal synthetic oxytocin administration during labour, birth and postpartum
@homebirthstoriesaustralia
Support the show by buying us a coffee! Please be advised that this podcast may contain explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.
The information, statistics, and research presented in this podcast are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. All information discussed can be found online and is provided in the links in the show notes. It is always recommended to conduct your own research and make informed decisions. We advise you to discuss any topics or concerns with your healthcare provider. While we strive to incorporate the most up-to-date research in our episodes, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information discussed on the show.
Previous Episode

S2 EP: 22 Emma - Two Births, Hospital Birth, Homebirth, Doula, Nutritional challenges, COVID, Student Midwife, Prolapse, 2nd Degree Tear, PND, PNA, Private Midwife
In today’s episode, we chat with Emma, who shares her two distinct birth stories. Emma's first experience took place within the hospital system during COVID, where she faced challenges such as having an unknown midwife, being unable to bring her doula into the birth space, and not accessing the birth pool when she wanted. She reflects on how the care she received significantly impacted her experience.
After this, Emma shifted her mindset for her second pregnancy and birth, empowering herself to make informed decisions. She hired a private midwife and welcomed her baby into the comfort of her own home, surrounded by her family.
Throughout the episode, we explore a range of important topics, including:
- Mental health issues, including postnatal depression and anxiety
- Breastfeeding challenges
- Hyperthyroidism
- Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult
- Navigating a vegan lifestyle during pregnancy, including low iron and nutritional issues
- Experiences with prolapse and tearing
Links:
- Bron (doula) - Kindred Birth
- Dawn Shalom (midwife)
- Birth Mapping
- Core & Floor Restore
- Foraged for You supplement
- Amberley Harris - IBCLC
- Thompson Method
- Doulas Uncensored - Breastfeeding with Amberley Harris
- Australia Mothers & babies Report - Breastfeeding stats
- Australian Breastfeeding association
@homebirthstoriesaustralia
Support the show by buying us a coffee! Please be advised that this podcast may contain explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.
The information, statistics, and research presented in this podcast are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. All information discussed can be found online and is provided in the links in the show notes. It is always recommended to conduct your own research and make informed decisions. We advise you to discuss any topics or concerns with your healthcare provider. While we strive to incorporate the most up-to-date research in our episodes, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information discussed on the show.
Next Episode

S2 EP: 24 Final Ep of 2024
In today’s episode, Laura & Aimee, take a moment to reflect on the year that was—both personally and within the world of the podcast. They chat about the highs, the lessons learned, and some of the most memorable moments from 2024.
Here’s what’s in store for you in this episode:
- A heartfelt look back at the past year—how things have evolved in both their personal lives and the podcasting journey.
- The most listened-to episodes of the year and what made them stand out!
- A huge thank you to everyone who’s supported the podcast, including those who bought us a coffee—we see you, and we’re so grateful!
- An exciting update as we open up to sponsorship and what that means for the future of the show.
- A sneak peek at what’s coming in the next season—what to expect, and what we’ve got in store for you.
- Listener Q&A! We dive into some of your burning questions from our Instagram stories, covering:
- Tips for helping partners get on board with homebirth
- Our approach to parenting (and how homebirth may have influenced it)
- Navigating big emotions for kids during the holiday season
It’s a mix of reflection, gratitude, and exciting new things on the horizon. Tune in for all the details and a little sneak peek into what’s coming next!
Links:
- Maternal and perinatal outcomes by planned place of birth in Australia 2000 – 2012: a linked population data study- (Homer et al., 2019)
- Midwives Cauldron Podcast
- The Great Birth Rebellion Podcast
- Pop Culture Parenting Podcast - Parenting Styles
- Together with Rachael Rose Podcast
- Calling Home Podcast
- Positive Birth Australia Podcast
- Australian VBAC Stories Podcast - (New)
- VBAC Birth Stories (old one) Podcast
@homebirthstoriesaustralia
Support the show by buying us a coffee! Please be advised that this podcast may contain explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.
The information, statistics, and research presented in this podcast are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. All information discussed can be found online and is provided in the links in the show notes. It is always recommended to conduct your own research and make informed decisions. We advise you to discuss any topics or concerns with your healthcare provider. While we strive to incorporate the most up-to-date research in our episodes, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information discussed on the show.
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