What is prolactin? Prolactin is a polypeptide hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. Its secretion is pulsatile, and the amount secreted varies throughout the day. Moreover, the secretion of prolactin is influenced by many factors. So, what are the hazards if prolactin secretion is too high?
The hazards of high prolactin levels
High prolactin is an endocrine disorder caused by multiple factors, which is more common in women and relatively rare in men. Continuous elevation of serum prolactin (PRL) can lead to dysfunction of the hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis, causing various hazards such as menstrual disorders and infertility. What are the hazards of high prolactin levels?
1. Low estrogen status
Various degrees of menstrual irregularities, such as infrequent menstruation and long-term amenorrhea; There is obvious vaginal wilting and dryness, which can cause difficulty in sexual intercourse; Menopausal symptoms may occur, such as hot flashes, palpitations, etc.
2. Infertility
Mild elevated prolactin levels can still induce ovulation, but basal body temperature shows prolonged follicular phase, shortened luteal phase, and low progesterone levels, leading to luteal insufficiency and difficulty in conceiving. Even if fertilized, implantation is also difficult, often resulting in preclinical miscarriage. Elevated prolactin significantly affects ovulation and causes anovulatory infertility.
3. Tumor compression symptoms
Patients may experience headaches and bloating; Due to tumor compression of the optic chiasm nerve, symptoms of visual field defects may occur.
4. Kaohsiung hormone status
High prolactin secretion is often accompanied by high androgen levels, and these patients may experience symptoms such as moderate obesity, seborrhea, acne, hirsutism, and limb hypertrophy.
The above is the harm of high prolactin analyzed by the editor. High prolactin can affect female fertility, so patients must actively receive treatment and strive for early recovery.
