Dr. Helen Fisher divides love into three categories that correspond to different hormones and brain systems. Her analysis of the data suggests that high androgen and estrogen levels generate lust, romantic love correlates with high dopamine and norepinephrine and low serotonin, and attachment is driven by oxytocin and vasopressin. To make matters more complicated, these three systems interact. For example, testosterone can kickstart the two love neurotransmitters while an orgasm can elevate the attachment hormone, according to Fisher. Don't copulate with people you don't want to fall in love with, she warns.4
Dr. Helen Fisher categorizes love into three types based on hormonal influences and brain mechanisms. Lust is attributed to high levels of androgens and estrogens, while romantic love is linked to increased dopamine and norepinephrine, along with decreased serotonin. Attachment is connected to oxytocin and vasopressin, and these three systems are interrelated. For instance, testosterone can stimulate romantic feelings, and orgasms can boost attachment hormones.
Fisher advises caution in sexual relationships, suggesting that one should avoid intimacy with individuals they do not wish to develop strong feelings for. This interconnectedness of the hormonal systems implies that engaging in physical relations can inadvertently lead to deeper emotional bonds.
