How do oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy affect prolactinoma?
Oral contraceptives are not thought to contribute to the development of prolactinomas, although some studies have found increased prolactin levels in women taking these medications. Because oral contraceptives may produce regular menstrual bleeding in women who would otherwise have irregular menses due to hyperprolactinemia, prolactinoma may not be diagnosed until women stop oral contraceptives and find their menses are absent or irregular. Women with prolactinoma treated with bromocriptine or cabergoline may safely take oral contraceptives. Similarly, postmenopausal women treated with medical therapy or surgery for prolactinoma may be candidates for estrogen replacement therapy.
Related Questions
- At what age do I switch from oral contraceptives to hormone replacement therapy, or can I stay on oral contraceptives forever? At what age should a girl start going to a gynecologist as opposed to her pediatrician?
- Is it safe for DES-exposed daughters to use oral contraceptives (birth control pills) or hormone replacement therapy?
- Is it safe for DES-exposed daughters to use oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy?
