3759
3.5 Minute

10-10-2024 Team Medicover woman-and-child

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Tanuja Priyadarsini V,Gynecologist

Prolactinoma in Women: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

Prolactinoma in women is a hormonal condition that often goes unnoticed until symptoms disrupt everyday life. A prolactinoma is a noncancerous tumor in the pituitary gland that causes excessive production of prolactin , the hormone responsible for stimulating breast milk production. While this condition can affect anyone, it is significantly more common in women, especially those of childbearing age.

Understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options is key to managing prolactinoma effectively.

What Is Prolactinoma?

Prolactinoma is a type of benign pituitary tumor that leads to an abnormal increase in prolactin hormone levels in the bloodstream. Prolactin plays a crucial role in reproductive health, particularly in females, as it regulates the menstrual cycle and lactation.

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Symptoms of High Prolactin in Females

Symptoms of high prolactin in females vary based on the intensity of the hormone imbalance. Common signs include:

Irregular or absent menstrual periods
Infertility
Milky breast discharge not related to pregnancy or breastfeeding
Painful intercourse due to vaginal dryness
Unexplained weight gain
Acne and excessive hair growth (hirsutism)
Mood changes or anxiety

If left untreated, high prolactin levels can lead to complications like osteoporosis due to decreased estrogen levels.

Causes of High Prolactin in Females

The primary cause is usually a prolactinoma, but other factors include:

Hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone)
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Stress
Certain medications (e.g., antidepressants, blood pressure drugs)
Pregnancy and breastfeeding (naturally elevate prolactin)

Prolactin Hormone Function

The function of the prolactin hormone is primarily related to reproductive health:

Stimulates breast milk production postpartum
Regulates menstrual cycles
Helps in sexual satisfaction by lowering dopamine post-orgasm
Plays a minor role in immune function and metabolism

Prolactin Normal Range in Females

The prolactin normal range in females is typically:

Non-pregnant women: 4–23 ng/mL
Pregnant women: 34–386 ng/mL

Persistent levels above this range may indicate prolactinoma or another underlying issue.

Foods to Lower Prolactin Hormone

While food alone can’t cure prolactinoma, incorporating the following may help lower prolactin hormone levels naturally:

Vitamin B6-rich foods: Tuna, turkey, bananas
Zinc-rich foods: Pumpkin seeds, cashews, lentils
Magnesium: Leafy greens, avocados, dark chocolate
Herbs: Maca root and vitex (chasteberry) under medical guidance
Reduce refined sugar and alcohol, which can aggravate hormonal imbalance

Note: Always consult your doctor before making dietary changes or using herbal remedies.

Ways to Reduce Prolactin Hormone

In addition to dietary adjustments, here are medically recognized ways to reduce prolactin hormone:

Medications (Dopamine Agonists):
- Cabergoline (preferred for fewer side effects)
- Bromocriptine
Stress Reduction:
- Yoga, meditation, and regular sleep can stabilize hormone levels.
Treat Underlying Conditions:
- Managing thyroid disorders or PCOS can indirectly lower prolactin.
Avoid Estrogen-Boosting Drugs:
- Estrogen can increase prolactin production; review medications with your doctor.

Diagnosis of Prolactinoma

Diagnosis typically involves:

Blood Tests: To measure prolactin levels
MRI Scan: To detect pituitary tumors
Vision Tests: To check for optic nerve pressure

Treatment of Prolactinoma in Women

1. Medications

First-line treatment is usually medication like cabergoline or bromocriptine, which helps shrink the tumor and normalize prolactin levels.

2. Surgery

If medications fail or cause side effects, transsphenoidal surgery is performed to remove the tumor through the nasal passage.

3. Radiation Therapy

Reserved for resistant or recurring tumors not responding to other treatments.

Long-Term Management and Lifestyle

Prolactinoma requires ongoing monitoring:

Regular blood tests to track prolactin levels
MRI scans every 6–12 months
Address thyroid or adrenal issues if they arise

Lifestyle tips:

Exercise regularly
Eat a hormone-supportive diet
Manage stress effectively
Maintain a healthy weight

Medicover Hospitals and Prolactinoma Care

Medicover Hospitals offers specialized diagnosis and treatment for prolactinoma. Their team of endocrinologists and neurosurgeons provides comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to women’s hormonal health. From precise imaging to advanced surgical techniques, Medicover is a trusted choice for prolactinoma treatment in women.

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Conclusion

Prolactinoma in women is a manageable condition when diagnosed early and treated properly. With the right medication, dietary support, and lifestyle changes, most women can achieve hormonal balance and improved quality of life. If you’re experiencing symptoms like irregular periods or unexplained weight gain, don’t ignore them, seek guidance from a qualified specialist at Medicover Hospitals or your nearest healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Diagnosis involves blood tests to check prolactin levels and imaging tests like MRI to locate the tumor on the pituitary gland.

Common treatments include medications like dopamine agonists (e.g., cabergoline or bromocriptine), and in some cases, surgery may be required.

Yes, in some cases the tumor may return, requiring ongoing monitoring and possible retreatment.

No, most cases are managed with medication. Surgery is considered when medication fails or causes intolerable side effects.

While lifestyle changes may support hormone health, prolactinoma requires medical treatment and should not be managed through natural remedies alone.

Yes, Medicover Hospitals provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options for prolactinoma, including access to experienced endocrinologists and advanced imaging services.