Hyperprolactinaemia: What It Is and How to Deal With It

Ever heard of a hormone called prolactin? It’s the one that helps your body make milk after pregnancy. When levels get too high, the condition is called hyperprolactinaemia. Too much prolactin can mess with periods, cause unwanted milk production, and even affect mood.

Why Prolactin Levels Can Spike

Most of the time, a small tumor on the pituitary gland (called a prolactinoma) is the culprit. But stress, certain meds (like some antipsychotics or birth‑control pills), and thyroid problems can also push prolactin up. Even chest wall irritation from a surgery or injury might do it.

What You Might Notice

Women often notice irregular periods, missed periods, or unexpected breast milk. Men may feel a loss of libido, erectile issues, or breast tenderness. Both sexes can get headaches, vision changes, or a general feeling of fatigue.

If you spot any of these signs, a simple blood test can confirm whether your prolactin is high. Doctors usually ask you to fast and avoid nipple stimulation before the draw because those things can temporarily boost prolactin.

Getting a Clear Diagnosis

Once the blood test shows high levels, the next step is imaging—usually an MRI of the brain to look at the pituitary. If the scan shows a tiny tumor, it’s often treatable. If no tumor appears, doctors will check thyroid function and review any medicines you’re taking.

Treating Hyperprolactinaemia

The first line of treatment is medication. Dopamine agonists like cabergoline or bromocriptine lower prolactin by mimicking dopamine, which naturally keeps prolactin in check. Most people feel better within weeks, and the tumor (if there is one) can shrink.

When meds don’t work or cause bad side effects, surgery to remove the pituitary tumor is an option. Radiation therapy is a last resort for stubborn cases.

Lifestyle Tips to Keep Prolactin in Balance

Even if you’re on medication, a few daily habits help. Manage stress with short walks or breathing exercises—stress can raise prolactin. Keep a regular sleep schedule; poor sleep can disrupt hormone balance.

If you’re on a drug that raises prolactin, talk to your doctor about alternatives. Simple changes, like switching birth‑control pills, can make a big difference.

Quick FAQ

Can hyperprolactinaemia cause infertility? Yes, high prolactin can stop ovulation in women and lower sperm production in men.

Is hyperprolactinaemia dangerous? It’s rarely life‑threatening, but untreated cases can lead to bone loss because prolactin can affect estrogen and testosterone.

Will the condition go away on its own? Rarely. Most people need treatment to bring levels back to normal.

Bottom line: if you notice menstrual changes, unexpected milk, or sexual issues, get your prolactin checked. Early diagnosis and simple meds can get you back to normal fast. Keep your doctor in the loop, follow the treatment plan, and add low‑stress habits to support hormone health.