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Fertility Glossary

Hyperprolactinaemia

A persistently raised blood prolactin level.

Anatomy & hormones

Hyperprolactinaemia is a persistently elevated blood prolactin level found outside pregnancy or breastfeeding. In women it commonly causes irregular or absent periods and anovulation, sometimes with breast discharge. In men it can reduce testosterone and sperm counts and lower libido. Evaluation looks for causes including hypothyroidism, a pituitary adenoma (assessed with pituitary imaging if levels are significantly raised), and certain medicines. Treatment addresses the underlying cause and is managed by a specialist; this is not something to self-treat.

Also known as: high prolactin, elevated prolactin, raised prolactin

Sources

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (icmr.gov.in)
  • Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (fogsi.org)

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only โ€” always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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