Hormones

Hormones are responsible for many bodily functions including growth, repair, maintenance and triggering a number of bodily processes. Learn more here.

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Hormonal system

The endocrine (hormonal) system influences your metabolism, growth and other functions. Learn more about what it is and related conditions.

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Endocrine glands and their hormones

Find out more about the endocrine glands and hormones in your body, such as the pituitary gland, thyroid gland and adrenal glands.

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Follicle stimulating hormone

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is made by the pituitary gland in the brain. Find out what it does and when your FSH blood level may be tested.

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Pituitary gland and hormones

Your pituitary gland is found in your brain and is considered your body’s ‘master gland’. Learn more about the role of your pituitary gland here.

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Oxytocin

Oxytocin is a hormone that plays an important role in both the female and male reproductive system.

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Adrenaline

Adrenaline (epinephrine) is a natural stress hormone. It is also a medicine used in an emergency for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).

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The role of cortisol in the body

Cortisol is a stress hormone with many important functions. Find out what happens if you have too little or excess cortisol and about corticosteroid drugs.

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Pineal gland

Find out about the pineal gland. This is a very small gland in your brain that makes the hormone melatonin, which controls your internal body clock.

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Adrenal glands

Find out about your adrenal glands, which sit on top of your kidneys and make several important hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol.

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The role of an endocrinologist

Endocrinologists are specialists who treat hormone-related conditions. Learn how to find one and important questions to ask before your appointment.

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Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally made in your body. It helps to control how and when you sleep. It can be taken as a medicine if you have sleep problems.

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Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) comes in various forms and is used to treat the symptoms of menopause.

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Human growth hormone

Human growth hormone is a small protein that travels in the bloodstream to stimulate growth. Learn more about the medical uses of human growth hormone.

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Hormonal contraceptives and periods

Find out how different hormonal contraceptives (for example the oral contraceptive pill, hormonal IUD, and injection) might affect your period.

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Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is when the thyroid gland doesn't make enough thyroid hormone. Read about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

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Graves' disease

In this autoimmune condition, the thyroid gland in the neck produces too much thyroid hormone that can cause tremor, anxiety, a racing heart, goitre and bulging eyes.

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Growth disorders

Growth disorders are disorders that can cause abnormally fast or slow growth. They can be caused by genes, hormones, or nutrition.

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Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia affects your adrenal glands and causes imbalances in the levels of certain hormones. It can be mild or severe.

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Intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD)

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a reliable method of contraception (birth control). Find out about the copper IUD and the hormonal IUD.

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Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism (or thyrotoxicosis) occurs when the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone.

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Intersex variation

Intersex variations are caused by physical, hormonal or chromosomal differences. Learn more about intersex variation and what causes it here.

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Contraceptive injection

Read about the contraceptive injection, a type of hormonal birth control that needs to be given every 3 months to prevent pregnancy.

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Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects many females in their reproductive years. Read about PCOS and your health.

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Cushing's syndrome

Cushing's syndrome is a hormonal disorder with a wide range of symptoms. Learn what causes Cushing's syndrome and why it is difficult to diagnose.

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Osteoporosis medicines

Osteoporosis medicines include bisphosphonates, denosumab and hormonal treatments. Calcium, vitamin D and exercise are also important.

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Primary aldosteronism

Primary aldosteronism is a condition where you make too much of the hormone aldosterone — find out about the symptoms, causes and treatments.

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Female reproductive system

The female reproductive system includes organs such as the uterus (womb), ovaries, fallopian tubes and vagina, as well as hormones.

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Thyroid gland

Your thyroid gland sits in the front of your neck and helps control your metabolism. Read about the different thyroid hormones and thyroid problems.

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Thyroid function tests

A thyroid function blood test is used to check your thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3) blood levels.

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