• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Fertility Topics
  • Fertility Therapies
  • Hormone Health
  • Nutrition
  • Success Stories
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com
  • Shop Products
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility tips, information, herbs, supplements and more

  • Shop Products

Fertility Therapies

Natural Treatment Options for Hyperprolactinemia

Elizabeth Willett - M.A., Certified Herbalist
July 13, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

Hyperprolactinemia (HI-per-pro-lak-tin-E-me-ah) is an endocrine system disorder that causes the body to produce higher-than-normal levels of prolactin.

Prolactin is the hormone that stimulates breast milk production during pregnancy and induces lactation after giving birth. In the absence of pregnancy, high levels of prolactin may lead to infertility and decreased libido in both women and men. There are, however, gender-specific symptoms…

Symptoms of Hyperprolactinemia

For Women:

  • irregular nipple discharge
  • breast milk production in the absence of pregnancy (Galactorrhea)
  • irregular menstrual cycles including amenorrhea (absent period) and luteal phase defect
  • disrupted ovulation
  • painful intercourse due to vaginal dryness
  • increased risk of miscarriage

For Men:

  • erectile dysfunction (impotence)
  • Gynecomastia or male breast enlargement
  • headaches or problems with vision resulting from a pituitary tumor affecting the optic nerve
  • decreased muscle mass
  • lack of body hair

Causes of Hyperprolactinemia

According to ReproductiveFacts.org from the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, Hyperprolactinemia is most commonly caused by a benign or noncancerous prolactin-secreting pituitary tumor (prolactinoma), or diseases that affect the pituitary gland. Other potential causes are:

  • hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
  • injuries or trauma to the thoracic or chest wall which includes the rib cage, diaphragm and upper abdomen (surgical scars and tumors) or health conditions that have affected this area of the body (Herpes zoster also known as shingles)
  • chronic liver or kidney disease
  • blood pressure and pain medications (specifically the use of opiates for pain), SSRI antidepressants, antipsychotics, medications for ulcers and gastrointestinal reflux, and prescription estrogen for menopause

In some cases, no known cause of hyperprolactinemia can be determined.

Medical Treatment Options
Common medical solutions for hyperprolactinemia are radiation or surgical removal of an existing pituitary tumor, or the prescription medications Bromocriptine and Cabergoline. While we do not suggest taking herbs with prescription medications, natural support can be offered to the endocrine system, pituitary gland, and thyroid gland if medications are not being taken. It is important to determine, with the help of your healthcare provider, the underlying cause of hyperprolactinemia before creating a natural fertility program.

Natural Treatment Options

1. Nourish the Endocrine System & Pituitary Gland

The pituitary gland is one of the many glands of the endocrine system – the body’s message center which coordinates the delivery and communication of hormones throughout the body.

The pituitary gland is the “master gland” responsible for regulating the thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive glands. These glands make hormones that control growth and development of the body, metabolism, stress response, and the reproductive cycle.

The pituitary gland also produces the key female and male reproductive hormones luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), as well as estrogen and progesterone for females and testosterone for males. It is the anterior pituitary gland that secretes prolactin.

Adaptogen Herbs for Endocrine System Support
There are a variety of herbs classified as adaptogens that are known to nourish the endocrine system:

  • Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
  • Schizandra (Schisandra chinensis)
  • Fo-Ti (Polygonum multiflorum)
  • Licorice (Glycyrrhiza spp.)
  • American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)
  • Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
  • Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)

The adaptogen Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is known to not only nourish the endocrine system, but also to boost the function of an underactive thyroid and to support a healthy stress response within the body, as well as support hormone balance for men and women, energy levels and libido.

2. Vitex – Chaste Tree Berry

Vitex also known as Chaste Berry (Vitex agnus-castus), the #1 female fertility herb, has been clinically studied to determine its ability to influence prolactin levels and results show it has the ability to reduce elevated prolactin levels.

A German study in the journal Phytomedicine of 34 females with hyperprolactinemia showed a marked decrease in elevated prolactin levels in 80% of the participants. These women took 30 to 40mg of Chaste Tree berry per day for one month, which resulted in decreased prolactin levels, as well as a reduction in symptoms of various menstrual disorders.

Vitex is also known to encourage hormone balance and menstrual cycle regulation. Vitex encourages a normal luteal phase by supporting the body’s natural progesterone levels, and promotes regular ovulation.

3. Support Thyroid Health

Hypothyroidism results in increased levels of thyroid-releasing hormone in the body, which may in turn increase secretion of prolactin and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). This increase in secretion of prolactin may cause hyperprolactinemia and galactorrhea.

What to do to support healthy thyroid function…

  • Eat a diet rich in food sources of iodine.
  • Supplement with select key nutrients – B vitamins, vitamins C, E & A and select minerals like zinc, copper and selenium, and the herbs Ashwagandha, Rhodiola and Maca.

To purchase a supplement that supports thyroid health with these key nutrients click here…

4. Manage Stress

Stress boosts levels of stress hormones such as cortisol, which inhibits the body’s main sex hormone GnRH (gonadotropin releasing hormone) and subsequently suppresses ovulation, sexual activity, hormone balance and even sperm count. GnRH, produced in the hypothalamus, signals the pituitary gland to release LH and FSH, which then signals the ovaries to release estrogen and progesterone. GnRH is also the hormone responsible for prolactin secretion. When the release of GnRH is inhibited, testosterone, estrogens, and the libido can be suppressed resulting in decreased fertility.

The key – Reduce Stress! Find a practice that can help you let go of stress and most importantly can help you react to stressors differently – in the words of Natural Fertility Info.com Founder Hethir Rodriguez, “… because sisters, stress in the world is not going to disappear, but we do have control over how our bodies react to it.”

Will hyperprolactinemia inhibit pregnancy?

For some, possibly, for others, no. There is no one answer for every case of hyperprolactinemia. Each case presents itself differently. The cause of elevated prolactin levels and the degree to which they are elevated will play a role in whether pregnancy can occur or not. High levels of prolactin in pregnancy have not been found to influence a woman’s ability to carry a baby if pregnancy occurs.

Pinpointing the cause of hyperprolactinemia is key in determining the best treatment options for your needs.

References

  • Barton-Schuster, D. (n.d.). What Your Breast Health Says About Your Fertility. Retrieved from: http://natural-fertility-info.com/breast-health.html
  • Chapman, I. M., MBBS, PhD. (n.d.). Galactorrhea – Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders. Retrieved from: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/endocrine-and-metabolic-disorders/pituitary-disorders/galactorrhea
  • Hyperprolactinemia. (n.d.). Retrieved from: http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/neurology_neurosurgery/centers_clinics/pituitary_center/conditions/hyperprolactinemia.html
  • Hyperprolactinemia (high prolactin levels). (n.d.). Retrieved from: https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/patient-fact-sheets-and-booklets/documents/fact-sheets-and-info-booklets/hyperprolactinemia-high-prolactin-levels/
  • Klibanski, A., & Schlechte, J. (Eds.). (2010, January 1). Fact Sheet. Retrieved from: http://www.hormone.org/questions-and-answers/2010/hyperprolactinemia
  • Romm, A. (2010). Fertility Challenges. In Botanical medicine for women’s health (pp. 339-340). St. Louis, Missouri: Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier.
  • Thomer, M., & Melmed, S. (Eds.). (2012, April 6). National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service (NEMDIS). Retrieved from: http://www.endocrine.niddk.nih.gov/pubs/prolact/prolact.aspx
  • Wuttke, W., Jarry, H., Christoffel, V., Spengler, B., & Seidlová-Wuttke, D. (2003, January 1). Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) – Pharmacology and clinical indications. Retrieved from: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0944711304702330

« Previous Post
Is Vitamin A Dangerous for My Pregnancy and Baby?
Next Post »
Pregnancy Smoothies 101

About the Author

Elizabeth Willett - M.A., Certified Herbalist

Elizabeth Willett - M.A., Certified Herbalist

Elizabeth Willett is the Senior Herbalist and Lead Educator at NaturalFertilityInfo.com. She holds a BS in Mass Communications (2000) from Minnesota State University, and a Master of Arts degree (MA, 2010) in Holistic Health Studies with a specialization is herbalism from St. Catherine University in St. Paul, MN. Liz has written over 200 articles on women's fertility and brings a vast wealth of knowledge and expertise in holistic health and healing to Natural Fertility Info.com

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 19

Open
What you are doing today is impacting the health of your eggs 90 days from now. Let's pamper those eggs! 
​
​If you are wondering where to get started, download my egg health guide at www.EggHealthTips.com

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 17

Open
Can added sugars in our diets affect hormonal health and fertility? Here are the details and the effects sugary foods can have on hormonal and reproductive health... 
​
​What's your biggest hurdle when it comes to sugar?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 12

Open
Diana’s story is one of true heartbreak after years of struggle, but with a glorious golden light at the end of the tunnel. Here is her truly inspiring fertility journey…
​
​​​​​
​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 6

Open
Q: I am on birth control, can I start supporting my hormonal health with herbs and supplements or do I need to be off of birth control to start?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 4

Open
Have you been waiting to begin making healthy lifestyle changes to support your fertility health? Do you feel overwhelmed about where to begin?
​
​What has been holding you back?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 2

Open
Girls, we all have one. Here are some ways to encourage health and balance, naturally...
​
​For the full guide, click the link in our Bio.
​

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 27

Open
Jennifer experienced multiple miscarriages before finding our website. She became inspired by our success stories and was determined to become one too! Read more about her journey... 
​
​
​​​​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 25

Open
Q: When should someone consider having testing done?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 21

Open
To make an impact on your health, you will need to first learn the actions and steps to take... then you will need to be consistent with those actions. It is the consistency that brings you the results. You are going to be human and not be perfect 100% of the time. Just accept that and get back to it. Consistency, day in and out, is more important than being perfect. You can't be 100% perfect for long, but you can be consistent every day.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 19

Open
If you’ve undergone many consecutive fertility treatments without a successful pregnancy, it could be time for a break. Taking a break gives your body a chance to cleanse, reset and recover. Relief from the side effects and stress could be exactly what you need for a fresh start for your fertility journey.

Use the time to work on yourself- mind and body. A break might even give you the opportunity to find a new sense of peace or a new version of your fertility program.
​
Learn more about natural therapies you can use to help your body reset after medical fertility treatments...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 13

Open
After 6 unsuccessful IUIs and one IVF of the same result, Angela takes a break and discovers the Natural Fertility Company. Using our resources to help her implement some changes, she has a much different result on her next IVF at 43. Click through the slides to read her story...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 11

Open
Q: My partner smokes, will this affect his fertility?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 6

Open
I have KMF imprinted on many of my personal belongings as a constant reminder to Keep Moving Forward. This started to be my mantra about 20 years ago when I was in a tough patch and knew the only way was through, and step by step. Keep moving forward. What is the next step, shuffle or even pause that may need to happen? Whatever it is, move towards it, into it, and forward.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 4

Open
With so many chemicals and outside factors contributing to estrogen dominance in the body, it is good to help support hormonal balance and one way to do that is through foods.
​
​Here are some tips, including foods that help to promote the body's natural ability to get rid of excess estrogens. ..
​
​Are you getting any of these foods in your weekly diet?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 1

Open
Trish conceives her second child with natural therapies at 37. Swipe through to read her story... 
​
​​​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 30

Open
Q: I have heavy periods, should I be concerned about using tampons?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 28

Open
I knew what my life's calling was at a very young age. At around 16, I had a dream where a dreadlocked rasta man came to me (Burning Spears to be exact) and in that dream was told that I was to be a healer. It was the type of dream that was more real than reality. The next day I woke up feeling different than I had ever felt before. Later on that day, we had new neighbors move into the house above us and a woman came and introduced herself. When I opened the door, she said her name and told me she was opening up a school of healing and that I was to be one of her students. It was one of the most intense series of events in my life. I went on to go to her school and my path started with an amazing community and so much support. What are one of the most life changing experiences you have had? I would love to hear...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 24

Open
Stress can be one of the primary factors behind infertility. Believe it or not, our bodies are equipped to prevent conception from occurring during times of extreme stress. The presence of adrenaline, the hormone that is released by our bodies during stressful times, signals to our body that conditions are not ideal for conception. Adrenaline inhibits us from utilizing the hormone progesterone, which is essential for fertility. It also causes the pituitary gland to release higher levels of prolactin, which also causes infertility to occur.
​
​Swipe left for ways to reduce the effect of stress on your fertility...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 21

Open
At 39, Milissa focuses on natural ways to prevent another miscarriage & goes on to conceive. Swipe through the slides to read more about her journey... 
​
​
​**​​While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 17

Open
​We come into contact with xenohormones on a daily basis. Once you know where and what they are, you can avoid them or not use products that contain them. There has been extensive research on the connection between xenohormones and hormone disruption, which leads us to fertility issues and imbalances. Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...
​
​If you would like support in getting started with your Ditch and Switch, download my free guide on how to get started. The link is in our Bio.
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Upcoming Classes

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us