Prolactin

Prolactin is a hormone produced primarily by the pituitary gland in the brain. Its main role is to stimulate breast milk production in women after childbirth. Prolactin levels rise during pregnancy and breastfeeding, helping nurture infants. However, it has other functions, including influencing metabolism, immune response, and reproductive health in both men and women. High levels of prolactin, known as hyperprolactinemia, can lead to health issues such as menstrual irregularities in women and sexual dysfunction in men. Understanding prolactin is important for recognizing its impact on overall health and bodily functions.