Fertility Glossary

Pituitary gland

The gland in the brain that releases FSH and LH.

Hormones

The pituitary sits beneath the brain and releases FSH and LH, which control the ovaries and testes, plus prolactin and TSH. Fertility medicines such as agonists and antagonists work by acting on the pituitary to prevent an early LH surge during IVF stimulation.

Also known as: pituitary

Sources

Healthdirect Australia (healthdirect.gov.au)
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby (pregnancybirthbaby.org.au)

Last reviewed: 10 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

Related terms

FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone)

The pituitary hormone that stimulates follicles to grow.

LH (luteinising hormone)

The pituitary hormone whose surge triggers ovulation.

GnRH antagonist protocol

The most common IVF protocol, using antagonist injections to prevent early ovulation.

GnRH agonist protocol

A longer protocol that first suppresses the natural cycle.

Hypothalamus

The brain region that signals the pituitary to drive the cycle.

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