Pituitary gland

The pituitary gland is a small gland located beneath the brain. The pituitary gland produces substances (hormones) that enter the bloodstream and help control many processes of the body.

Hormones produced in the pituitary gland help manage these body functions:

  • Growth
  • Blood pressure
  • Some aspects of pregnancy
  • Breast milk production
  • Sex organ functions in both women and men
  • Thyroid gland function
  • The conversion of food into energy (metabolism)
  • Water balance in the body

Current as of: March 31, 2020

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Kirtly Jones MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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