prolactin

Prolactin is a peptide hormone secreted mainly by lactotroph cells of the anterior pituitary gland. Its primary function is to promote the growth and development of mammary glands and stimulate the production of breast milk following childbirth. Prolactin secretion is regulated mainly by dopamine from the hypothalamus, which normally inhibits its release. Levels naturally rise during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In addition to lactation, prolactin influences reproductive hormone regulation, metabolism, and immune system activity. Abnormally high prolactin levels (hyperprolactinemia) may occur due to pituitary tumors called prolactinomas, certain medications, hypothyroidism, or other conditions, and can cause irregular menstrual periods, infertility, unexpected milk production (galactorrhea), or reduced testosterone levels in males. Low prolactin levels are uncommon but may affect the ability to produce breast milk.

Prolactin is a hormone made by the pituitary gland that helps the body produce breast milk after childbirth. It also affects reproductive hormones and fertility. Too much prolactin can sometimes cause problems such as irregular periods or difficulty becoming pregnant.

• Hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland • Mainly responsible for stimulating breast milk production after childbirth • Helps with mammary gland development during pregnancy • Controlled primarily by dopamine from the hypothalamus • Levels normally increase during pregnancy and breastfeeding • Also influences reproductive hormones, fertility, metabolism, and immune function • High prolactin levels (hyperprolactinemia) may be caused by prolactinomas, medications, hypothyroidism, or other disorders • Excess prolactin may cause irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, galactorrhea, or reduced testosterone levels • Prolactin blood tests are used to evaluate pituitary function, fertility problems, and unexplained milk production