The menstrual cycle is regulated by a complex hormonal balance. When one of these hormones is altered, changes may occur that affect fertility.
One of the hormones commonly assessed during a fertility study is prolactin. When its levels are elevated outside pregnancy or breastfeeding, it can alter the menstrual cycle, affect ovulation, and make it more difficult to achieve pregnancy.
What is Prolactin and what is its function?
Prolactin is a hormone whose main function is to stimulate milk production after childbirth. Therefore, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is normal for prolactin levels to increase.
In addition to supporting breastfeeding, high prolactin levels help to temporarily inhibit ovulation, reducing the likelihood of a new pregnancy during this period.
Outside these situations, having elevated prolactin levels, known as hyperprolactinaemia, can alter the normal functioning of the menstrual cycle and ovulation.
What symptoms can hyperprolactinaemia cause?
Not all women with hyperprolactinaemia have symptoms. In fact, in some cases it is diagnosed during a fertility study without the woman having noticed any previous alteration.
When they do appear, the most common symptoms are:
- Changes in the menstrual cycle.
- Absence of ovulation.
- Reduced or absent menstruation.
- Difficulty achieving pregnancy.
- Milk secretion from the nipple outside pregnancy or breastfeeding (galactorrhoea).
- Reduced libido.
- Headache
- Visual disturbances
What are the causes of hyperprolactinaemia?
Prolactin can increase for several reasons. The most common causes include:
- Stress, lack of sleep or intense physical exercise.
- Thyroid function disorders.
- Some medications, such as certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, or hormonal treatments.
- Pituitary gland disorders.
Identifying the cause of the increase in prolactin is essential to indicate the most appropriate treatment and assess its possible impact on fertility.
At Barcelona IVF, we conduct a personalised fertility study to identify possible hormonal alterations, such as hyperprolactinaemia, and offer the most appropriate treatment according to each patient’s needs.
Frequently asked questions
- Does high prolactin always prevent pregnancy?
No. Many women with hyperprolactinaemia achieve pregnancy. However, when prolactin alters ovulation, it can reduce the chances of conception.
- How is high prolactin detected?
Through a blood test. This determination is usually included in the hormonal study when there are menstrual changes or difficulties conceiving.
- Can high prolactin be treated?
Yes. Treatment will depend on the cause of the increase in prolactin. In many cases, normalising its levels allows ovulation to recover.
