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Only during nipple stimulation will prolactin levels rise, allowing for milk production. [22] At 6 weeks post-birth (postpartum), estradiol concentrations decrease, and prolactin concentrations return to normal even during breastfeeding. Fluctuations in prolactin levels during menstrual cycles and menopause are inconclusive. [23]
General guidelines for diagnosing prolactin excess (hyperprolactinemia) define the upper threshold of normal prolactin at 25 μg/L for women and 20 μg/L for men. [59] Similarly, guidelines for diagnosing prolactin deficiency (hypoprolactinemia) are defined as prolactin levels below 3 μg/L in women [72] [73] and 5 μg/L in men.
[10]: 18–21 [22] Although prolactin levels are higher on average among breastfeeding mothers, prolactin levels themselves do not correlate to milk volume. [10]: 18–21 At this stage, production of milk is triggered by milk drainage from the breasts. The only way to maintain milk supply is to drain the breasts frequently.
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.
Mechanical detection of suckling increases prolactin levels in the body to increase milk synthesis. Excess prolactin may inhibit the menstrual cycle directly, by a suppressive effect on the ovary, or indirectly, by decreasing the release of GnRH. [2] Suckling is a pivotal factor in maintaining lactational amenorrhea postpartum.
By analyzing prolactin levels in various lactation situations, insights are provided into how changes in prolactin affect milk production and overall lactation health. This emphasizes the importance of understanding prolactin's role for better diagnosis and management of lactation issues, offering valuable information for treating both normal ...
High levels of prolactin are necessary for lactation, however there is no direct correlation between baseline levels of prolactin and quantity of milk production. [5] One aspect of supply regulation that has been identified is that breast milk contains a peptide called feedback inhibitor of lactation (FIL).
Prolactin, produced in the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland, is the major hormone responsible for milk production. During pregnancy, the level of prolactin rises to trigger the development of mammary tissue in the breast to prepare it for milk supply. [17]