Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is Pitocin. It helps to induce labor or strengthen contractions in pregnancy. It can also be used to control bleeding after giving birth. Pitocin can also be used in combination with other medications to terminate a pregnancy. It may have other uses, too. 

You will receive this medicine as an infusion into a vein or an injection into your muscle. Your doctor will determine which dose is best for you. Generally, your doctor will start your Pitocin dose as low as possible, then increase it as needed.  

Most people tolerate this medicine well. Common side effects can occur in both mother and baby. Some possible side effects for mother include nausea, vomiting, and increased blood pressure. Some possible side effects for baby include slower heart rate and yellowing of the skin. You should talk to your health care team about which symptoms to watch for, and when to report them. 

As with all medicines, rare but serious side effects can occur. In the mother, Pitocin can cause severe allergic reactions, excessive bleeding, changes in the heart rhythm, or rupture in the uterus. In the baby, Pitocin can cause bleeding, changes in the heart rhythm, or brain damage. It is important to speak to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist about Pitocin and to read the Patient Information Sheet for full information. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow you closely. 

Pitocin can interact with other medicines. It is important to tell your doctor of any other medications or herbal supplements you may be taking. 

For best results with Pitocin, be sure to report any side effects to your healthcare team.