Page 42 - The Miracle of Hormones

Brain
Skull
Hypothalamus

Anterior lobe
of pituitary
gland
Posterior
lobe

Axons
Posterior lobe

Granules containing
hormone

Anterior lobe
Hormones

Oxytocin

Uterus

Oxytocin hormone is produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior
pituitary gland. At the correct time, a nerve signal is sent out by the hypothalamus
to the pituitary gland causing it to secrete this hormone. Its purpose is to ensure
the contraction of the milk channels and uterine muscles when the time of birth
approaches. In this way, it facilitates the birth process.