Treatment of High Prolactin Levels

What is Prolactin?

Prolactin is a hormone made by the pituitary gland that the breasts to grow and make milk during pregnancy and after birth. Prolactin levels are normally high for pregnant women and new mothers. Levels are normally low for nonpregnant women and for men. If prolactin levels are higher than normal, it often means there is a type of tumor of the pituitary gland, known as prolactinoma.

The Difference Between Hyperprolactinemia and Prolactinoma

Hyperprolactinemia means you have higher-than-normal levels of prolactin in your blood. This is typically caused by a benign tumor in your pituitary gland known as a prolactinoma. Prolactinoma also reduces the level of sex hormones.

Symptoms of High Prolactin Levels

High prolactin levels in women cause the following:

Irregular menstrual periods or no menstrual periods
Milky discharge from the breasts even if not pregnant
Vaginal dryness which causes pain during sex
Acne and excessive body and facial hair growth

High prolactin levels in men cause:

Reduced facial and body hair
Erectile dysfunction
Enlarged breast
Smaller muscles
Infertility and loss of sexual interest

What Causes High Prolactin Levels in Women?

There are no specific causes of high prolactin levels in women. But, several factors contribute to your risk of this condition. Some causes include:

Medication
Kidney disease
Underactive thyroid gland
Other types of pituitary tumors
Pregnancy and breastfeeding

How is High Prolactin Diagnosed?

If you experience the signs and symptoms of prolactinoma, your doctor will recommend the following diagnostic method:

Blood tests. It shows the production or levels of prolactin your body produces. It determines whether levels of other hormones controlled by the pituitary gland are within the standard range.
Brain imaging. Your provider may be able to detect a prolactinoma using a magnetic resonance imaging scan of your brain.
Vision tests. These can determine if a prolactinoma is affecting your sight.