The pituitary gland is a small but mighty gland responsible for the function of most of the other major endocrine glands. This small pea sized gland measuring about 7 mm in size and about 7 grams is the major integration point between the external world and the endocrine system.

Stress: Our body needs to deal with stress and the stress may come from the external world ( Seeing or hearing the roar of a predator), the internal mileau, (dealing with an infection) or the brain itself ( feeling sad). This is dealt with at several neuro- endocrine junctions ( eg, pituitary, adrenal gland, )

Growth: The pituitary gland is the gland that integrates the synchronous secretion of hormones to produce growth. In one swift move around the time of puberty, it blocks the action of insulin and diverts energy towards vertical growth. Wish that could just continue!

Brain anatomy PITUITARY GLAND – cross section

Reproduction: From sexual drive (Libido) to the production of testosterone, sperm and the menstrual cycle, at the same time checking on the maternal fat stores to ensure that the baby has a decent chance of survival. Fat cells secretes a hormone that is constantly monitored by the hypothalamus and the pituitary.

Lactation: Breast milk production is a very complex process where 4 separate hormones are orchestrated in the correct order to produce milk when the baby suckles on the breast. This is a process takes place over 9 months and all by this tiny pea in the center of your brain.

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