a. Parathyroid Gland.

This gland increases in size slightly. It meets the increased requirements for calcium needed for fetal growth.

b. Posterior Pituitary.

Near the end of term, the posterior pituitary will begin to secrete oxytocin that was produced in the hypothalamus and stored there. It will serve to initiate labor.

c. Anterior Pituitary.

At birth, the anterior pituitary will begin to secrete prolactin. This stimulates the production of breast milk.

d. Placenta.

The placenta acts as a temporary endocrine gland during pregnancy. It produces large amounts of estrogen and progesterone by 10 to 12 weeks of pregnancy. It serves to maintain the growth of the uterus, helps to control uterine activity, and is responsible for many of the maternal changes in the body.