Posterior pituitary gland

• OT – oxytocin:

  enhances contraction of smooth muscle cells in wall of uterus.

  stimulates milk ejection in response to suckling infant. 

  enhances affection and trust between mother & child, and between partners.
• ADH – antidiuretic hormone (vasopressin):

  causes kidneys to return more water to the blood rather than going to urine output.

  decreases water loss through perspiration.

  raises blood pressure by constricting arterioles.