Does hyperprolactinaemia cause a missed period?

Prolactin normally supports breast changes after childbirth. Outside that setting, persistently high levels can suppress the hormone messages between the brain, pituitary gland and ovaries. Ovulation may be delayed or absent, so a period may arrive late or not occur in that cycle.

A missed period can also follow pregnancy, breastfeeding, stress, major exercise changes, weight changes, thyroid disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome or certain medicines. Hyperprolactinaemia is one possible explanation, not a conclusion from the symptom alone.

If pregnancy is possible, use a pregnancy test and tell the clinician the result. Keep a record of your last period, usual cycle pattern, medicines and symptoms such as nipple discharge, headaches or vision changes. A clinician may examine you and request prolactin, pregnancy and thyroid testing. Prolactin may be checked again if the first result could have been influenced by stress, sleep disruption or breast stimulation.

The right treatment depends on the reason prolactin is high. Medical advice is especially useful if missed periods recur or you are trying to conceive.

Arrange timely care for repeated missed periods, milk-like nipple discharge when not breastfeeding, or new headaches or changes in vision. Seek urgent help for sudden severe headache, sudden visual loss, fainting, or severe pelvic pain or bleeding.

What could be contributing to my missed period? Which tests are appropriate? Could any medicine I take raise prolactin? When should I repeat testing or return for review?