Oxytocin effects on resting-state heart rate variability in women: The role of childhood rearing experiences

D. Schoormans, W.J. Kop, L.E. Kunst, M.M.E. Riem*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

103 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Oxytocin is known for its stress-reducing effects and has been associated with autonomic nervous system measures (ANS) involved in the stress response, such as heart rate variability (HRV). The current study examined the effects of intranasal oxytocin on HRV among women (oxytocin N ​= ​87, placebo N ​= ​86) during rest. Results show that oxytocin reduced RMSSD and low frequency (LF)-HRV, but only in women with positive childhood rearing experiences, and not in women with negative childhood experiences. These findings suggest that oxytocin plays a role in ANS regulation and that childhood rearing experiences may influence oxytocin effects on this stress regulating system.
Original languageEnglish
Article number100007
JournalComprehensive Psychoneuroendocrinology
Volume3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2020

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Oxytocin effects on resting-state heart rate variability in women: The role of childhood rearing experiences'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this