Prolactin

Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that occurs in both sexes. In females, prolactin increases significantly during pregnancy through to breast-feeding. However, high levels of prolactin can also be caused by stress. Hyperprolactinaemia can lead to cycle disorders and amenorrhea, breast secretions, headache, decreased libido, miscarriage, metabolic disorders and overweight. In males, excessive prolactin levels may cause impotence, sterility and gynaecomastia.