Can hyperprolactinaemia cause anovulation?

The effect may show up as irregular periods, absent periods or difficulty becoming pregnant, although these changes can have other causes.

Prolactin is a hormone involved in milk production. When its level remains elevated outside the expected settings of pregnancy or breastfeeding, it can suppress signals from the brain that coordinate the ovaries. This may reduce the release of hormones needed for a follicle to mature and release an egg.

Some people also notice unexpected milky nipple discharge, reduced sexual desire or vaginal dryness. A single raised result does not by itself establish the cause: stress around blood sampling, medicines, thyroid problems and pituitary conditions are among the factors a clinician may consider.

Arrange a medical assessment if periods have become irregular or stopped, if you have unexpected nipple discharge, or if you are trying to conceive without evidence of ovulation. Take a pregnancy test when pregnancy is possible.

The assessment may include a medication review, repeat prolactin testing under suitable conditions, thyroid testing and evaluation of the menstrual pattern. Further hormone tests or pituitary imaging may be considered according to the result and symptoms. Treatment is directed at the underlying reason for the raised prolactin; ovulation may return when the hormone disturbance is corrected. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without advice.

Seek prompt medical assessment for a new or worsening headache, changes in vision, loss of side vision, fainting, weakness or confusion, especially when these occur with menstrual changes or nipple discharge. A sudden severe headache with visual or neurological symptoms needs emergency care.

Contact a clinician if periods stop unexpectedly, because pregnancy and other hormonal causes should be checked rather than assuming prolactin is responsible.

Ask whether the prolactin result should be repeated, whether any current medicine could be contributing, which thyroid or reproductive hormone tests are appropriate, and how ovulation can be monitored if pregnancy is a goal. You can also ask what symptoms would make pituitary imaging necessary.