Prolactin Deficiency
Description
Prolactin is a hormone that is produced by the pituitary gland and is responsible for milk production in a woman’s breasts after a baby is born. So, the increased levels of prolactin during pregnancy are normal. Two main hormones are responsible for controlling prolactin production: dopamine and estrogen. Estrogen increases prolactin production while dopamine suppresses it. Prolactin levels are normally low in men, and non-pregnant and non-lactating women. Prolactin deficiency is a very rare condition that affects people with underactive pituitary. After giving delivery, inadequate milk production might result from a reduction in prolactin secretion. Most individuals with low prolactin levels don't have any particular health issues.
Symptoms
prolactin deficiency is very rare, but below are the most common symptoms :
- Irregular periods
- Inadequate lactation
- Delayed puberty
- Infertility
- Decreased spermatogenesis and testosterone production in males
Visit a General Practice doctor (General Practitioner) if you have any of the above symptoms.
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View MoreCauses
Prolactin deficiency can result from :
- Postpartum necrosis of the pituitary gland
- Autoimmune disease
- Hypopituitarism
- Growth hormone deficiency
- Hypothyroidism
- Some medications like dopamine
- Genetic disorders
Diagnostics
The doctor will order prolactin blood levels in women with unexplained milk secretion or irregular menses or infertility, and in men with impaired sexual function and milk secretion.
Treatment
There is no specific medication for prolactin deficiency and treatment will depend on the main cause of this condition.
