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, adrenals, 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.
See all

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.

2500+

support enquiries answered

2300

members in our network

92%

of attendees rated our events good or excellent

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

Salisbury April Support Group Meeting

20/04/2024

An opportunity to meet others affected by pituitary conditions in the Salisbury area.

York April Support Group Meeting

27/04/2024

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

Man standing in front of a powerpoint presentation

Welcome to The Pituitary Foundation – May

07/05/2024

Join us at one of our monthly Welcome Events to get to know us and learn a bit more about the work we do and the support we offer to the pituitary community.

Solent & Isle of Wight May Support Group Meeting

11/05/2024

Join us for our May meeting at the Southampton General Hospital.

Abseil Anfield Stadium 2024

11/05/2024

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

The Great Bristol Run 2024

19/05/2024

Join Team Pituitary and take part in The Great Bristol Run 2024!

News and updates

Research Opportunity: Body clock disruption and mental health

18th March 2024

Research Opportunity: People with acromegaly

28th February 2024

Attending the SIMBA Adrenal event

28th February 2024
Think Pituitary was our 2021 campaign which sought improved and ongoing training for health care professionals who care for pituitary patients.

It is vital that people with conditions like adrenal insufficiency and diabetes insipidus feel safe going into hospital and able to trust they will receive the necessary treatment.

Find out more