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Hyperprolactinemia, characterized by abnormally high levels of prolactin, may cause galactorrhea (production and spontaneous flow of breast milk), infertility, and menstrual disruptions in women. In men, it can lead to hypogonadism, infertility and erectile dysfunction. Prolactin is crucial for milk production during pregnancy and lactation.
Prolactin levels peak during REM sleep and in the early morning. Many mammals experience a seasonal cycle. [38] During pregnancy, high circulating concentrations of estrogen and progesterone increase prolactin levels by 10- to 20-fold. Estrogen and progesterone inhibit the stimulatory effects of prolactin on milk production.
High levels of prolactin during pregnancy and breastfeeding also increase insulin resistance, increase growth factor levels (IGF-1) and modify lipid metabolism in preparation for breastfeeding. During lactation, prolactin is the main factor maintaining tight junctions of the ductal epithelium and regulating milk production through osmotic balance.
During pregnancy, the production of prolactin by the mother increases steadily, starting at 6–8 weeks of gestation and continuing until the end of the pregnancy. [32] Prolactin levels in the human fetal circulation see a gradual increase from around 30 weeks of gestation until birth. [ 32 ]
Blood and urine samples may be taken to determine levels of various hormones in the body, including prolactin and compounds related to thyroid function. A mammogram (an X-ray of the breast) or an ultrasound scan (using high frequency sound waves) might be used to determine if there are any tumors or cysts present in the
Illustration of fundal height at various points during pregnancy. Some degree of weight gain is expected during pregnancy. The enlarging uterus, growing fetus, placenta, amniotic fluid, normal increase in body fat, and increase in water retention all contribute weight gain during pregnancy. The amount of weight gain can vary from 5 pounds (2.3 ...
High levels of progesterone, which are associated with pregnancy, inhibits prolactin and therefore lactation. [30] Prolactin increases during the initial stages of lactation and can be stimulated by estrogen but not progesterone. [30] Research, however, focuses on the role of prolactin for breastfeeding and less on other behaviors. [30]
The mix of hormones characteristic of early pregnancy promote natural growth of maternal tissues and weight gain. [15] In the second half of pregnancy, progesterone and prolactin prepare the mammary glands for lactation. [16]