Hormones of the pituitary gland

No bigger than a pea, the pituitary gland is an endocrine gland that can be found at the foot of the brain. The functions of this tiny, yet important, part of the body system are in connection with the hypothalamus, which is linked to the nervous system.

Nine hormones are secreted by this gland and they all go to regulate the homeostasis it has two components. Having knowledge of the pituitary gland and its effects on the body is something that all women should have when heading to menopause.

What is the pituitary gland

Widely referred to in medical circles as the master endocrine gland, it is controlled by the hypothalamus and has two parts. These are:

• Anterior pituitary – This is the component that synthesizes hormones before they are secreted. These hormones are: adrenocorticotropic, thyroid-stimulating, growth, prolactin, luteinizing, follicle stimulating and melanocyte-stimulating.
• Posterior pituitary – This stores two hormones before release. These are: oxytocin and antidiuretic.

These hormones are released in conjunction with the hypothalamus and move to the rudimentary human intermediate lobe. From here it helps the body in various ways. Read on to find its uses in the human body.

Functions of the pituitary gland

The hormones that are produced and secreted by the pituitary gland help the body by controlling these processes:

• Sex organ functions (for both sexes)
• Blood pressure
• Breast milk production
• Water regulation
• Kidney water balance
• Thyroid gland function
• Temperature regulation
• Growth
• Pregnancy and childbirth

The pituitary gland and menopause

Menopause is a natural transition that affects every woman at some point in her life. It is often seen as the fault of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone for when signs and symptoms occur but you shouldn’t forget the role of the pituitary gland.

Hot flashes happen to the body when the pituitary gland and hypothalamus in the brain are confused and try to force the ovary to produce the estrogen that the body needs. By becoming overactive it can unwittingly increase body temperature and release too much follicle stimulating hormone.

More about the pituitary gland

Whilst having a great effect on the ovaries, we know that the pituitary gland has many effects on the rest of the body. Make sure you have regular and solid eating habits alongside an exercise schedule to ensure that your pituitary gland works correctly. Click on the following link for more information about pituitary gland hormones.