Prolactin is a peptide hormone that is synthesized and secreted by prolactin cells in the anterior pituitary gland. Prolactin is secreted in women during late pregnancy and lactation to promote mammary gland development and lactation. The maximum serum level of prolactin in non-pregnant women usually does not exceed 20 ng/ml. The secretion of prolactin is regulated by the hypothalamus and increases significantly after sleep and decreases after waking. Therefore, we recommend that patients sit still for more than 20 min before the blood test, which can be done on any day of the menstrual cycle. One abnormal prolactin test usually requires a repeat test, and two abnormal prolactin tests before treatment is recommended. Etiology of hyperprolactinemia Pituitary tumors 2 Empty saddle syndrome
3 Idiopathic hyperprolactinemia (that is, nothing in particular causes it, probably hyperprolactin cell function) 4 Medication, some medications for schizophrenia may also cause high prolactin levels. Of these, 1 and 2 require MRI for diagnosis. Effect of hyperprolactin on pregnancy Hyperprolactinemia inhibits ovulation and reduces estrogen levels, so it is recommended to prepare for pregnancy after lowering prolactin. Prolactin can increase up to 10-fold in normal people after pregnancy, so testing is generally not recommended except in patients with pituitary microadenomas or with symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, or visual field defects. Effects of taking bromocriptine during pregnancy and breastfeeding Bromocriptine is not recommended after pregnancy or during breastfeeding unless you have headaches, visual field defects, blurred vision, etc., and stop breastfeeding during breastfeeding. However, if you take bromocriptine after pregnancy, do not worry, there is no evidence that bromocriptine can cause fetal malformation.