Hyperprolactinemia--a significant factor in female infertility

Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1981 Feb 1;139(3):264-7. doi: 10.1016/0002-9378(81)90006-5.

Abstract

A prospective study was undertaken to determine the incidence of hyperprolactinemia in a group of referred infertile women, and to determine the association with (a) abnormal menstrual function and (b) presence or absence of galactorrhea. Of 113 referred infertile patients, 22 (19.5%) had elevated levels of serum prolactin. Five (4.4%) patients with hyperprolactinemia had neither abnormal menstrual function nor galactorrhea. This study demonstrates that hyperprolactinemia is a common finding in an infertile population, more so when galactorrhea and/or menstrual dysfunction is also present.

PIP: A prospective study was undertaken to determine the incidence of hyperprolactinemia in a group of referred infertile women, and to determine the association with abnormal menstrual function and presence or absence of galactorrhea. Of 113 referred infertile patients, 22 (19.5%) had elevated levels of serum prolactin. 5 (4.4%) patients with hyperprolactinemia had neither abnormal menstrual function nor galactorrhea. This study demonstrates that hyperprolactinemia is a common finding in an infertile population, more so when galactorrhea and/or menstrual dysfunction is also present.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Amenorrhea / etiology
  • Child
  • Female
  • Galactorrhea / etiology
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Female / blood
  • Infertility, Female / etiology*
  • Menstruation
  • Oligomenorrhea / etiology
  • Pregnancy
  • Prolactin / blood*
  • Prospective Studies

Substances

  • Prolactin