Anatomy

Anatomical Issues

The diagram below shows the location and hormones produced by most of the relevant glands in the body. Though this course will not cover every hormone that's indicated for every gland, please investigate this diagram. You can refer back to this diagram as needed throughout the course; just click on "Anatomy" on the Table of Contents to your left.
(Text of the course is continued below the diagram)

Move your cursor over the following diagram, and locate the sites of hormone production.

Hormones are produced in a variety of anatomical areas. With pregnancy, there is an increase in the number of hormone sources, and in many cases, a significant change in the quantity of hormone produced.

For example,

A gland or organ that normally produces a hormone may continue to produce it during pregnancy.
- for example, the ovary continues to produce estrogen and progesterone.
A gland or organ may produce an additional hormone during pregnancy, not normally produced.
- for example, the anterior pituitary also produces prolactin.
A gland or organ that normally produces a hormone may produce more of it during pregnancy.
- for example, the thyroid gland produces more thyroxine.
A gland or organ that normally produces a hormone may produce less of it during pregnancy.
- for example, the pituitary gland produces FSH and LH, but in diminished amounts.
Certain glands or organs may only exist during pregnancy, and therefore only produce hormones during pregnancy.
- for example, the placenta, which only exists during pregnancy, produces a hormone unique to pregnancy, human placental lactogen.

Instant Feedback:

The ovary stops producing estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy.