What does increased prolactin in women

Prolactin is a hormone that produces the pituitary gland. In the female body, in a small amount, it also produces a layer of endometrium. There are several types of hormones: monomeric, tetrameric and dimeric prolactin. Most of all, the body contains a monomeric form.

Despite modern methods of scientific research, the final effect of prolactin on the body has not yet been revealed. It is known that it promotes the development of mammary glands in women, the formation of colostrum, the formation of lobules and ducts in the chest, and also affects the subsequent decrease in the activity of the lactation process. In addition, prolactin regulates water-salt metabolism in the human body. In women, hormone also acts as a contraceptive. It is due to prolactin during pregnancy and lactation that the risk of re-conception is minimized. But as soon as a woman stops the process of lactation, or it ends for other reasons, this hormone action is canceled.

Increased prolactin in women in some cases is considered the norm. For example, during pregnancy in the blood gradually increases its concentration. Immediately before birth, its activity decreases, and then increases only with the onset of breastfeeding.

If pregnancy has not occurred, increased prolactin in women can lead to unpleasant consequences. But, before making any conclusions, it is necessary to repeatedly pass the tests, and strictly on an empty stomach. It is also necessary to maintain emotional stability, because The level of hormones can change under the influence of stressful situations in any direction. A huge role is played by the day of the menstrual cycle at the time of diagnosis. The fact is that increased prolactin in women is directly related to the phase of ovulation.

Symptoms of increasing the level of the hormone are known: decreased sexual desire, hair growth in uncharacteristic places, acne, excess weight, menstrual disorder and lack of ovulation. Some symptoms are characterized by increased prolactin in men.

Such changes in the human body lead to a violation of its performance. Women complain of a prolonged absence of conception and a minimum of milk to be separated after delivery. In men, impotence or decreased erectile function, infertility, enlargement of the mammary glands and even colostrum are observed.

Elevated prolactin in physiological women can be, as already mentioned, during pregnancy, during lactation, with emotional stress, after sexual intercourse. In the morning hours, namely about 5 - 6 o'clock in the morning, the level of the hormone increases in both sexes.

Pathological increase of prolactin indicates the presence of damage to the pituitary gland, tumors, exposure to radioactive substances, trauma to the thoracic region, renal insufficiency, and a lack of B vitamins. Some drugs also increase prolactin.

At the slightest suspicion on the given pathology it is necessary to address to the doctor - to the endocrinologist. If necessary, he will prescribe additional diagnostics, on the basis of which the final diagnosis is made. Treatment is appointed strictly in an individual order.