The neuropeptide hormone oxytocin, which is produced in the hypothalamus, exerts significant influence on sexual response, sensuality, and interpersonal erotic and emotional attraction (Wade, 2011; Young, 2009). Some refer to oxytocin as the snuggle chemical because its release during breast-feeding facilitates mother-child bonding (Galbally et al., 2011). The release of oxytocin during sexual arousal and response may have a similar bonding effect on sexual partners (Young, 2009).
Oxytocin is secreted during cuddling and physical intimacy, and touch is an especially powerful triggering mechanism for its release (Ishak et al., 2011). Increased levels of circulating oxytocin have been shown to stimulate sexual activity in a variety of animals, including humans (Anderson-Hunt & Dennerstein, 1994; Wilson, 2003). This hormone increases skin sensitivity to touch and thus encourages or facilitates affectionate behavior (Love, 2001; McEwen, 1997). In humans oxytocin levels increase as a person moves through a sexual response cycle from initial excitement to orgasm, and high levels of oxytocin are associated with orgasmic release in both sexes (Anderson-Hunt & Dennerstein, 1994; Wilson, 2003).
The significant escalation of oxytocin release at the point of orgasm, together with the elevated levels of this hormone that remain in the blood for a time after-
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1 ward, could contribute to the emotional and erotic bonding of sexual partners and to a sense of shared attraction (Young, 2009). Research with human sub — I jects indicates that oxytocin plays an important role in facilitating social attach — 7 ment with others and in the development and fostering of feelings of being in ^ love (Donaldson & Young, 2008; Tabak et al., 2011). Autistic children, who commonly exhibit a reduced ability to form social attachments and express love, often have significantly reduced levels of oxytocin (Green et al., 2001; Ishak et al., 2011). This finding provides further evidence of the association between oxytocin levels and the capacity to form attachments and loving interactions.