What are the effects of too much prolactin (hyperprolactinemia)?
Hyperprolactinemia (too much prolactin) can cause irregular or no ovulation, resulting in infertility. Women who have this disorder often have irregular periods and may also have some milk production (galactorrhea) even if they are not pregnant. When the prolactin levels are high, irregularities in reproductive hormones can occur. This can result in infertility, bone density loss, visual disturbances, and headaches. What causes hyperprolactinemia? One of the most common causes of hyperprolactinemia is a small benign (non-cancerous) tumor in the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland produces prolactin and is located in the base of the brain behind the eyes. Other causes may be an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), or certain medications. Sometimes, the cause is unknown. How is hyperprolactinemia diagnosed? These tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis: • Prolactin blood level: measures the amount of prolactin in your blood • Thyroid test: diagnoses thyroid disorders; underactive th
