International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

Which part of the pituitary gland releases oxytocin?

1. Anterior pituitary

2. Posterior pituitary

3. Intermediate pituitary

4. Hypothalamus

The correct answer is: Posterior pituitary

The posterior pituitary is responsible for the release of oxytocin. This part of the pituitary gland does not produce hormones itself; instead, it stores and releases hormones that are produced by the hypothalamus, such as oxytocin and vasopressin (ADH). Oxytocin plays a crucial role in several physiological functions, particularly in childbirth and lactation, where it aids in uterine contractions during labor and milk ejection during breastfeeding. The anterior pituitary primarily produces and secretes other hormones such as growth hormone, prolactin, and adrenocorticotropic hormone but does not have a direct role in the release of oxytocin. The intermediate pituitary is involved in the production of some other hormones but is not significantly associated with oxytocin. The hypothalamus does synthesize oxytocin, but it is the posterior pituitary that is involved in its release into the bloodstream. Understanding the distinct roles of these different parts of the pituitary gland is key to comprehending how hormone regulation works in the body, especially regarding lactation and reproductive health.