Pitocin is a synthetic version of the hormone oxytocin that is used to induce labor, boost contractions, and control bleeding after birth. It is given as an intravenous medication. Pitocin is used to stimulate contractions for mothers who are experiencing weak contractions or prolonged labor. It is also used when the cervix is already ripened, meaning the cervix is softened and ready to start dilating. Pitocin can be useful in situations where a mother in labor is experiencing weak contractions or if the labor isnt progressing normally. However, the use of Pitocin should be treated as a delicate process that needs to be monitored properly, or else there could be dangerous complications. Pitocin can cause additional stress and make uterine contractions more difficult to manage, which can put more stress on the baby. It can also result in low heart rate, which can affect the babys oxygen supply. Pitocin is not indicated for elective induction of labor.