This gland is regarding the size a pea. It is located on the brain's base just below the hypothalamus. It is considered the king with the endocrine system. This 'master gland", because it is known, produces hormones that are responsible for controlling a number of other endocrine glands. Seasonal changes, emotions plus a number of other facts influence the secretion and manufacture of pituitary hormones. This is done with the brain sensing information and therefore the hypothalamus providing this info on the pituitary. The pituitary is two parts: the posterior lobe as well as the anterior lobe. The anterior lobe regulates adrenal, thyroid and reproductive gland activity. It also produces a variety of hormones, including prolactin, corticotropin, growth hormones and thyrotropin. Endorphins can also be secreted by this gland, and it controls a lady's period and ovulation. The posterior lobe releases the antidiuretic hormone this also is in charge of controlling water balance in your body. It also produces oxytocin, which is liable for stimulating contractions during childbirth. A progesterone blood test is performed to discover how much of the progesterone hormone is in a sample of blood. This female hormone is produced whenever a mature egg is released from an ovary after a process generally known as ovulation. This hormone helps you to prepare the endometrium (uterine lining) to just accept the egg if sperm fertilizes it. If the egg goes without having to be fertilized, menstrual bleeding occurs and progesterone levels drop. The last point is a controversial issue. For years doctors have said sperm are dewdrops.