pituitary
17.8 Gonadal and Placental Hormones The male and female reproductive system is regulated by follicle-stimulating hormone FSH and luteinizing hormone LH produced by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland in response to gonadotropin-releasing hormone GnRH from the hypothalamus. In males, FSH stimulates sperm maturation, which is inhibited by the hormone inhibin. The steroid hormone testosterone, a type of androgen, is released in response to LH and is responsible for the maturation and maintenance of the male reproductive system, as well as the development of male secondary sex characteristics. In females, FSH promotes egg maturation and LH signals the secretion of the female sex hormones, the estrogens and progesterone. Both of these hormones are important in the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system, as well as maintaining pregnancy. The placenta develops during early pregnancy, and secretes several hormones important for maintaining the pregnancy.