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

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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 (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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Our Story Become a Member

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

Living With a Pituitary Condition Tell your story

Join an event

Birmingham May Support Group Meeting

10/05/2025

Join us for a meal and social get-together.

Oxford May Online Support Group Meeting

12/05/2025

The Oxford support group are meeting online.

Exeter support group meeting

13/05/2025

Join us for our support group meeting in Exeter.

Psychological Impacts of Pituitary Conditions Online Talk with Dr Sue Jackson

15/05/2025

Join us at a talk with Dr Sue Jackson!

London to Amsterdam Cycle Ride – 3 day

15/05/2025

Ride the amazing London to Amsterdam Cycle Challenge, and join the team for a wonderful adventure. Take in four countries and cycle through the picturesque Kent countryside, rolling hills and the beautiful market towns and landscape of Northern France, Belgium and Netherlands, for a grand finale finish in Amsterdam.

Abseil Anfield Stadium 2025

17/05/2025

Descend 100ft down the side of the Anfield Stadium - Home of the Liverpool FC.

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News and updates

Factors influencing self-management of adrenal crises in patients with adrenal insufficiency: A qualitative study

28th April 2025

A cartoon speakerphone on a teal background

We're pushing for action on the desmo nasal spray shortage

14th April 2025

Watch our new Cushing's awareness video!

7th April 2025

More news and updates

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