Parts of the endocrine system

The endocrine system is made up of glands which are found in many different parts of the body. Look at the diagram of the endocrine system below.

Take some time to learn the different glands which make up the endocrine system and where they are located. (Image by Openstax and used under this creative commons license)

What do these glands do?

The glands in our endocrine system have important functions. Let us look at some glands and their functions:

Pituitary gland: This gland produces different hormones that control many other glands such as the adrenal glands, thyroid gland, the ovaries and testes. It is found at the base of the brain. The pituitary gland regulates many functions in the body including growth, metabolism and reproduction.

Pineal gland: This gland regulates your sleep cycle. It is found in the middle of the brain. It produces a hormone called melatonin. This hormone makes you feel sleepy.

Thyroid gland: This gland is found in the front part of your neck. It produces thyroid hormones which help regulate your metabolism.

Adrenal glands: There are two adrenal glands. There is one on top of each kidney. They produce many hormones including cortisol and adrenaline. Hormones produced by the adrenal glands help regulate blood pressure, metabolism and the body’s response to stress.

Pancreas: The pancreas makes a hormone called insulin, which regulates the level of sugar in the blood.

Ovaries: The ovaries release hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. The hormones produced by the ovaries regulate sexual development in females. They also help regulate the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

Testes: The testes release a hormone called testosterone. This hormone regulates sexual development in males. It also affects muscle strength and the production of sperm.