Which gland produces prolactin?

• A. Pituitary
• B. Adrenal
• C. Hypothalamus
• D. Thyroid

Answer: (A)

Prolactin is produced by the anterior pituitary gland. Lactotroph cells in this part of the pituitary synthesize and release prolactin into the bloodstream to stimulate milk production in the mammary glands after childbirth. Its secretion is mainly controlled by the hypothalamus through dopamine, which inhibits prolactin release; under certain conditions, other factors can modestly stimulate it, but the pituitary is the source. The other glands listed do not make prolactin—adrenal glands produce steroids like cortisol, the hypothalamus regulates pituitary hormones but does not secrete prolactin itself, and the thyroid makes thyroid hormones.