Which hormone is released by the posterior pituitary gland?

The hormone released by the posterior pituitary gland is oxytocin. This hormone plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, particularly in childbirth and lactation. Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions during labor and promotes the release of milk during breastfeeding, facilitating maternal bonding and nurturing behaviors.

Unlike other hormones listed, such as growth hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone, which are produced and released by the anterior pituitary gland, oxytocin is synthesized in the hypothalamus and transported to the posterior pituitary for storage and release. This distinction emphasizes the unique functional role of oxytocin in human physiology. Understanding the specific functions and locations of hormone production is essential for comprehending the larger endocrine system and its regulation of body processes.