Dr Sarah Buckley: The Magic of Oxytocin & The Impact Of Interventions in Birth
Understanding the Hormonal Physiology of Birth with Dr Sarah Buckley.
In this episode of The Journey Ahead Podcast, I sit down with Dr Sarah Buckley - GP, researcher, author, and one of the world’s leading voices on the hormonal physiology of birth - to explore how the body is biologically designed for labour, birth, and bonding.
This in-depth conversation unpacks the hormonal blueprint of labour, why it matters for both parent and baby, and how modern maternity care practices can unintentionally disrupt this delicate physiological process. Drawing on decades of research and clinical insight, Dr Buckley explains how hormones like oxytocin shape the experience of birth and early bonding - and what happens when that process is interrupted.
Whether you’re planning a home birth, preparing for a hospital birth, or simply want to better understand your body, this episode offers evidence-based insights to help you feel informed, empowered, and supported.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
The role of hormones - especially oxytocin - in labour, birth, and postpartum bonding
How common medical interventions can alter the natural hormonal flow of childbirth
The potential long-term effects of disrupted birth physiology on parent and baby
How to navigate birth within medical systems that may not prioritise physiological processes
Practical ways to support a positive birth experience through environment, knowledge, and advocacy
Understanding the hormonal physiology of labour and birth is key to making informed decisions about your care. Hormones like oxytocin, endorphins, and adrenaline work together in a finely tuned sequence to support not only the progress of labour but also emotional wellbeing and early attachment.
Catch the episode:
Whether you’re planning a home birth, preparing for a hospital birth, or simply want to better understand your body, I hope this episode has offered evidence-based insights to help you feel informed, empowered, and supported. Be sure to subscribe to The Journey Ahead Podcast on your favourite podcast platform so that you don’t miss any episodes!
