Prolactin is primarily known as the hormone responsible for stimulating breast milk production after childbirth. However, it is always present in small amounts in both men and non-pregnant women.
When the pituitary gland (a pea-sized gland at the base of the brain) produces too much prolactin, it results in a condition called Hyperprolactinemia, which can throw your entire hormonal system out of balance.
Symptoms of High Prolactin
In women, the most common signs are:
- Irregular periods or periods stopping entirely (amenorrhea)
- Milky discharge from the breasts when not pregnant or nursing (galactorrhea)
- Unexplained infertility (high prolactin suppresses ovulation)
In men, it can cause:
- Decreased sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Enlarged breasts (gynecomastia)
Why Does It Happen?
High prolactin can be caused by severe stress, certain medications (like antidepressants or acid reflux drugs), an underactive thyroid, or sometimes a benign tumor on the pituitary gland called a prolactinoma (which often causes headaches and vision changes).
A simple Serum Prolactin Test can measure your levels. If you are struggling to conceive or experiencing unexplained hormonal symptoms, ask your doctor to include prolactin in your blood work.
