Oxytocin
Oxytocin is a less well known molecule to anyone outside of the scientific or medical community. It is the love and bonding molecule.
Oxytocin levels increase gradually during pregnancy and labour. After birth, oxytocin helps to relax the mother and higher levels are produced with skin to skin contact between mother and baby which helps strengthen their bond. It also plays a role in trust and attachment in other interpersonal relationships.