The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain.
It is often called the “master gland” because it controls the activity of many other endocrine glands in the body.
Here’s its function, explained:
1. Controls other glands
The pituitary gland releases hormones that tell other glands — like the thyroid, adrenal glands, and gonads (ovaries and testes) — when to release their own hormones.
Example:
- TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone) → controls the thyroid gland.
- ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic hormone) → controls the adrenal glands.
- FSH and LH → control the reproductive glands.
2. Controls growth
It produces growth hormone (GH), which helps bones and muscles grow and repair themselves.
3. Regulates water balance
It releases ADH (antidiuretic hormone), which helps the kidneys control the amount of water in the body.
4. Supports childbirth and milk production
- Oxytocin helps in childbirth by causing contractions of the uterus.
- Prolactin helps in milk production after birth.
In short:
The pituitary gland controls growth, water balance, reproduction, and the activity of other endocrine glands — making it the main hormone regulator of the body.