Supporting everyone in the pituitary community, every step of the way.

The Basics

New to pituitary or not sure where to start? We'll explain what the pituitary gland is and take you through the first things you need to know.

What is the Pituitary Gland?
The pituitary gland secretes hormones which carry messages around the body via the bloodstream. It controls several hormone glands in the body, including the thyroid, adrenal glands, ovaries and testes, so is often described as the master gland.
Emergency Info for AI and AVP-D (DI)
In case of emergency you should call 999. This page outlines the sick day rules and other emergency information for both adrenal insufficiency and AVP deficiency (previously diabetes insipidus).
Causes of Pituitary Conditions
There are a range of causes for pituitary conditions, the most common being a non-cancerous tumour. Other causes include traumatic brain injury.
What are Hormones?
Hormones are chemicals which circulate in the blood stream and spread around the body to carry messages or signals to different parts of the body.
Major Endocrine Glands and Other Organs
There are a number of endocrine glands across the body which work together to secrete hormones. There are also several organs that contain endocrine tissue.
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Our Impact

Our vision is that all people with pituitary conditions live well, now and in the future. We work with everyone with a pituitary condition, their support networks and healthcare professionals to raise pituitary awareness and reduce time to diagnosis.

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Your Stories

Nadine’s story: Living with a physical disability and Cushing’s disease

Steven’ story: A Cushing’s diagnosis after unexplained weight gain

Serena’s story: Surgery for prolactinoma

Join an event

York November Support Group Meeting

15/11/2025

Friendly support for anyone affected by pituitary conditions in the York area.

A laptop placed on a table, with a person's hand on the mouse pad. The person is also holding a cup of tea in their other hand

LGBTQIA+ November Support Group Meeting

20/11/2025

The LGBTQIA+ support group are meeting for the first time!

Kent November Support Group Meeting

22/11/2025

Friendly and welcoming support group for people affected by pituitary conditions in Kent.

Adrenal Insufficiency Sick Day Rules Reminder with Aldons

24/11/2025

Join us at one of our regular sick day rules reminder for adrenal crisis.

AVP-D Online Event with Professor Miles Levy

26/11/2025

Join us for a great opportunity to learn more about AVP-D with Professor Miles Levy

Coventry December Support Group Meeting

03/12/2025

Professor Miles Levy is joining the group for their December meeting.

News and updates

Resilience, self-advocacy and hope: Liv's story

30th October 2025

Going for your first colonoscopy? Here's what you need to know.

28th October 2025
A man in a blue shirt is smiling in the sun

Being cortisol dependant - Benedict's story

27th October 2025
A person wearing a lab coat and blue latex gloves is holding a set of test tubes
We’re pushing for action on the desmopressin nasal spray shortage.

In response to wide-spread concern from our community about the effects of the desmopressin nasal spray shortage, we reached out to the Secretary of State for Health and Care, Wes Streeting, to push for action on this issue.

Find out more