Prolactin (in women)

Advanced wellness

also prl

What it isA pituitary hormone primarily known for driving milk production but with broader roles in reproduction, immunity, and mood.

DoesStimulates milk production and suppresses ovulation by inhibiting GnRH.

GoodMid-range prolactin signals an unobstructed reproductive axis.

BadElevated prolactin suppresses ovulation, causing amenorrhea, infertility, and sometimes galactorrhea. Very high levels suggest a pituitary tumor (prolactinoma).

Standard

<25 ng/mL non-pregnant.

Optimal

5–18 ng/mL non-pregnant (narrow target)

Modifiers

Rises with stress, sleep, nipple stimulation, recent meal; rises sharply in pregnancy and breastfeeding; certain medications (antipsychotics, some antidepressants).

How to optimize

Lifestyle: Stress management; quality sleep.
Diet: —
Supplements: Vitex (chasteberry, 400mg/day), vitamin B6 (P5P 25mg/day), zinc.
Peptides: —
Drugs: Cabergoline or bromocriptine for prolactinoma.

within Women's Hormones