The endocrine glands play an important role by regulating and controlling different body functions by producing and secreting hormones into the bloodstream.
The major glands of the endocrine system include the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, the thyroid gland, the parathyroid glands, the pancreas, the adrenal glands, the testes in the male, and the ovaries in the female. Also during pregnancy, the placenta becomes part of the endocrine system.