Back
Print 

Pituitary gland

Skip Navigation

Top of the page

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

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.