Prolactin is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain and plays a key role in stimulating milk production after childbirth.
Although elevated levels are normal during pregnancy and breastfeeding, elevated levels at other times can cause health problems, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial to maintaining a woman's health.
What is hyperprolactinemia in women
Hyperprolactinemia is a condition in which the level of prolactin, a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland, increases. Its primary function is to stimulate the breasts to produce milk after childbirth.
However, if it increases during times other than pregnancy and breastfeeding, it can cause menstrual irregularities, infertility, and delayed conception.
Causes of hyperprolactinemia in women
There are several causes of hyperprolactinemia in women, including:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome.
- Stress and psychological stress.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Certain herbs, such as fennel seeds and fenugreek.
- Chronic diseases such as kidney and liver failure.
- Thyroid or pituitary gland insufficiency.
- The presence of a benign tumor in the pituitary gland (prolactinoma).
- Some medications, such as those for depression, blood pressure, and psychosis.
Symptoms of high prolactin in women
Symptoms of high prolactin in women may vary from one woman to another:
- Delayed pregnancy.
- Low sexual desire.
- Irregular menstrual cycle.
- Headache and visual disturbances.
- Vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse.
- Milky discharge outside of pregnancy and breastfeeding.
How is high prolactin diagnosed in women
High prolactin is diagnosed by performing a blood test to measure prolactin levels, as a higher than normal level is an indicator of a problem.
The doctor may request additional tests, such as a thyroid test or an MRI of the brain, if a pituitary tumor is suspected.
Prevention of high prolactin in women
No proven methods have been established to prevent high prolactin in women, as the primary cause is a hormonal imbalance. However, there are factors that may reduce the risk of high prolactin levels.
These factors include adhering to a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, adequate sleep, reducing stress and physical exertion, and consulting a doctor at the first sign of symptoms.
What are the causes of high prolactin in unmarried women
The causes of high prolactin in unmarried women are similar to the primary causes, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, or pituitary gland insufficiency.
It may also be due to severe physical exertion, psychological stress, or chronic illnesses such as kidney or liver failure. In other words, the cause is not related to marriage but rather a hormonal imbalance.
Methods for Treating High Prolactin in Women
Treatment of high prolactin in women depends on the primary cause of the elevated hormone:
- Using medications to reduce prolactin secretion.
- Treating the underlying cause of hypothyroidism or PCOS.
- Surgery if the pituitary gland does not respond to medications.
- Stop or change medications causing high prolactin.
- Radiation therapy if pituitary surgery fails.
Complications of High Prolactin in Women
Women experience many complications due to high prolactin, including:
- Osteoporosis.
- Menstrual irregularities or cessation.
- Vaginal dryness and decreased sexual desire.
- Difficulty conceiving or infertility.
Is pregnancy possible with high prolactin
Yes, it is possible to become pregnant with high prolactin in women, but it is difficult because the elevated prolactin affects the ovaries and prevents regular ovulation, reducing the chances of pregnancy. This risk increases with adherence to treatment.
Summary of High Prolactin in Women
High prolactin is a disorder that affects women of any age and leads to menstrual irregularities, delayed pregnancy, and abnormal breast secretions.
The causes of high prolactin vary, and treatment depends on specific medications. Patients may also resort to surgery, but this is rare. The sooner treatment is initiated, the better and more effective it is in avoiding complications.