Optimal - The Blog
September 6, 2022
Prolactin is an interesting hormone with wide-ranging effects in the body, from promotion of breast development in women to sexual dysfunction and metabolic syndrome in men. Prolactin affects cardiovascular health and function, immunity, and reproductive health, so it can be an important hormone to monitor.
Low levels may be associated with autoimmunity, infections, hemochromatosis, sexual dysfunction, and metabolic syndrome. Certain medications can also decrease or increase prolactin levels.
Elevated levels may be associated with endothelial dysfunction and CVD, high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, kidney failure (reduced clearance), and infertility. High levels of prolactin are seen with pregnancy and prolactin-secreting tumors as well.
Interestingly, levels can increase significantly during sleep, though they are not usually measured during sleep.
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Tag(s):
Biomarkers
