Understanding the Master Gland Behind Hormonal Balance

Feeling persistently tired, experiencing low libido, unexplained weight changes, or even erectile dysfunction—yet your testosterone test seems “normal”? The answer may lie higher up in the hormonal chain: your pituitary gland (뇌하수체 – noehasuche). Often called the “master gland,” the pituitary controls vital hormones that regulate testosterone, thyroid, growth hormone, and adrenal function. At specialized centers like Gangnam J Urology Clinic in Seoul, Pituitary Function Testing is available as part of a complete diagnostic approach for men’s hormonal health and sexual wellness—especially helpful for expats and international patients seeking clear answers.

Why Is the Pituitary Gland Important for Men?

Located at the base of the brain, the pituitary gland produces key hormones that control:

• Testosterone production (via LH and FSH)
• Sperm generation and fertility
• Thyroid activity and metabolism
• Cortisol levels and stress response
• Growth hormone release (GH)
• Prolactin, which affects libido and sexual function

If the pituitary gland is underactive (hypopituitarism) or overproducing certain hormones, it can throw off your entire hormonal ecosystem—leading to a cascade of symptoms often misdiagnosed as depression, low T, or burnout.

When Should Men Get Pituitary Testing?

You may benefit from pituitary testing if you experience:

• Chronically low testosterone with normal or low LH/FSH
• Infertility or low sperm count (without obvious cause)
• Fatigue, brain fog, or unexplained weakness
• Erectile dysfunction or low libido
• Mood instability, poor recovery, or low motivation
• Gynecomastia (male breast development)
• Visual disturbances or headaches (in some cases of pituitary tumors)

Pituitary dysfunction may develop slowly and be subtle—making lab testing essential to catch it early.

How Pituitary Function Testing Works at Gangnam J Urology Clinic

 1. Detailed Consultation

• Thorough review of symptoms, hormone history, and sexual/reproductive health
• Friendly, English-speaking staff ensure clear communication

 2. Comprehensive Hormone Blood Panel
May include:

• LH (Luteinizing Hormone): Triggers testosterone production
• FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): Essential for sperm production
• Prolactin: Elevated levels can suppress testosterone and libido
• ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone): Controls adrenal cortisol output
• TSH, Free T3/T4: Assesses pituitary-thyroid signaling
• IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1): Reflects growth hormone activity
• Cortisol and Testosterone levels are often tested together for context

 3. Optional Imaging (If Indicated)

• If results suggest a pituitary tumor (e.g., prolactinoma), the clinic may refer you for brain MRI to visualize the gland
• Most cases, however, are diagnosed via bloodwork alone

What Happens If a Pituitary Problem Is Found?

• Low LH/FSH with low testosterone: May indicate secondary hypogonadism, treatable with HCG, Clomid, or pituitary hormone support
• High prolactin: May require medication (e.g., cabergoline) to normalize levels and restore sexual function
• ACTH or TSH abnormalities: May lead to further endocrine referral for coordinated hormone therapy
• Regular follow-up labs ensure treatment is effective and safe

Cost of Pituitary Hormone Testing in Korea

With NHIS (if symptoms justify testing):

• Each hormone test: ₩5,000–₩15,000
• Full panel (4–6 hormones): ₩30,000–₩50,000
• Doctor consultation: ₩5,000–₩15,000

Without NHIS (Out-of-pocket):

• Consultation: ₩30,000–₩60,000
• Full pituitary panel (LH, FSH, Prolactin, ACTH, IGF-1, etc.): ₩80,000–₩180,000
• MRI (if needed): ₩250,000–₩500,000 (typically done at a partner radiology center)

Why Choose Gangnam J Urology Clinic for Pituitary Evaluation?

• Holistic men’s hormone care, including pituitary and testicular hormone axes
• Advanced diagnostics with rapid lab turnaround (1–3 days)
• Option for fertility-preserving hormone therapy, not just testosterone
• Clean, modern facilities and international patient-friendly care
• Located in central Gangnam, close to public transportation



When standard testosterone therapy doesn’t solve the problem—or your symptoms don’t match your labs—the pituitary gland may be the true root cause. With Pituitary Function Testing at Gangnam J Urology Clinic, you’ll receive targeted, science-based insight into your hormonal health. Don’t settle for partial answers—get the full picture and take control of your wellness from the top down.