PRL and peripheral neuropathy: Increased prolactin and oxytocin levels during breastfeeding may be involved in the peripheral neuroprotection of breastfeeding.30–34 Inflammation and oxidative stress play crucial roles in peripheral neuropathy.10 As a mediator of inflammation, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) can directly cause peripheral nerve injury and influence peripheral nerves by causing endothelial dysfunction and vascular thickening.35 Oxytocin acts as a neuroprotective factor by preventing ischemia-induced inflammation and oxidative stress by regulating NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β, and microglial activation.30–32