Hyperprolactinaemia
Hyperprolactinaemia means raised levels of prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It can cause menstrual irregularities and fertility problems in women, and low testosterone and erectile dysfunction in men, among other symptoms.
Symptoms
- irregular or absent periods in women
- unexpected breast milk production
- reduced libido
- infertility
- low testosterone symptoms in men
- headaches or visual disturbance if caused by a larger pituitary tumour
Confirming a raised prolactin
A raised prolactin result is interpreted alongside symptoms, pregnancy status where relevant, medicines, thyroid function, kidney and liver health and the circumstances of sampling. Stress, sleep and some medicines can cause temporary elevation, so repeat or specialised testing may be needed before imaging.
Treatment and monitoring
Treatment depends on the cause. It may involve reviewing a medicine with the original prescriber, treating hypothyroidism, monitoring, or dopamine-agonist therapy for a prolactinoma. Follow-up considers prolactin levels, symptoms, fertility, pituitary function and MRI findings when indicated.
UK-wide video consultations
Assessment and most result reviews can take place securely by video. Blood tests, visual-field assessment and pituitary MRI are arranged locally where needed. New visual loss or a sudden severe headache requires urgent assessment.
What we offer
- same-day blood tests measuring prolactin under relaxed conditions
- pituitary MRI referral if a cause needs to be identified
- effective treatment, often with medication that lowers prolactin and shrinks a prolactinoma if present