Not Pregnant or Breastfeeding, But Still Have Milk? Here’s Why

BySamradni Pradhan
Updated: 10 Sept 2025, 9:30 am
Medical Reviewed by Dr. Sahana K P

Hyperprolactinemia is a condition caused by high levels of prolactin in both males and females. The hormone made by your brain is a key factor in reproductive health. However, in case its levels are abnormally high, it can cause irregular periods, infertility, or sexual difficulties. In this blog, you'll understand what causes elevated prolactin, its symptoms, and when to seek medical advice, all in simple, easy-to-follow language.

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Your body runs on a delicate balance of hormones, and prolactin is one of them. It is mostly recognised as an aid that helps women to produce milk (in the breast) after giving birth. But what about the case when you have an overbuild of prolactin even when you are not pregnant, and you are not breastfeeding? And, well, yes, men can also have elevated prolactin.
In this article:
If you've been told your prolactin level is elevated, or you're curious about its implications, this guide will help you understand the possible causes, its effects on your body, and the next steps you can take.

What Is Prolactin?

Prolactin is a hormone produced by a small gland called the pituitary found at the bottom of your brain. Its primary task is to aid women in breast milk production after delivery. However, no matter whether you are male or female, a tiny portion of prolactin is always in your body when you are not pregnant.
An excess of prolactin may result in hormonal imbalance and affect reproductive functions.

Symptoms of High Prolactin in Women and Men

It is important to note the symptoms that should be noted ahead of learning the causes of high prolactin. These symptoms can be different depending on your gender and health status.

In Women

  • Irregular or missed periods.
  • Milky discharge from the breasts (when not pregnant or breastfeeding).
  • Difficulty getting pregnant.
  • Pain during intercourse due to vaginal dryness.
  • Headaches or vision problems (in severe cases).

In Men

  • Decreased sex drive.
  • Erectile dysfunction.
  • Infertility.
  • Breast enlargement (gynecomastia).
  • Low energy or mood changes.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to get your prolactin levels tested through a simple blood test.

Common Causes of High Prolactin (Hyperprolactinemia)

Now that you know what prolactin is and how it behaves, let’s look at what could make it rise abnormally.

1. Pituitary Tumour (Prolactinoma)

A non-cancerous tumour of the pituitary gland of your brain, called a prolactinoma, is one of the most common causes of high prolactin. The imbalance of such a tumour is associated with the production of an excess amount of prolactin.
You may not always be sick, but when the tumour becomes big, it is likely to press on other parts of your brain, thus leading to headaches or even blindness. Fortunately, most prolactinomas are treatable with drugs that reduce the tumour size.

2. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Prolactin levels increase naturally when you become pregnant or have just given birth to assist in the readiness to breastfeed. This is a normal rise in health and typically returns to normal levels after you stop nursing.
However, if you’re not pregnant and still have high prolactin, then something else might be going on.

3. Certain Medications

Some medicines can raise your prolactin levels as a side effect. These include:
  • Antidepressants (especially SSRIs).
  • Antipsychotic medications.
  • High blood pressure drugs (like verapamil).
  • Anti-nausea medications.
If you're on any long-term medication, it's worth checking with your doctor if it could be affecting your prolactin levels.

4. Thyroid Problems (Hypothyroidism)

Hypothyroidism may be the cause of raised prolactin because of an underactive thyroid gland. Your brain then attempts to adjust to this by producing more thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), which leads to an increased abundance of prolactin.
The positive news is that prolactin levels can normalise when you take thyroid medication.

5. Stress

Yes, even emotional or physical stress can affect your hormones. High levels of stress may temporarily increase your prolactin. This type of rise is usually mild and doesn't last long, but chronic stress can keep levels higher than they should be.
Learning how to manage your stress, getting enough sleep, and following a healthy routine can be beneficial in such cases.

6. Chest Wall Injury or Stimulation

Any condition that affects the chest area, such as shingles, surgery, or tight clothing, can stimulate nerve endings and lead to increased prolactin production. In some rare cases, even frequent breast stimulation (like in sexual activity) may cause a temporary rise in prolactin.

7. Kidney or Liver Disease

If you have long-term kidney or liver problems, your body may not be able to break down and remove prolactin properly, leading to higher levels in your blood. Though not the most common cause, it’s something doctors consider, especially in people with other chronic health issues.

How Is High Prolactin Diagnosed?

If you suspect high prolactin levels, your doctor will usually recommend a simple blood test. For accurate results, it’s best to take the test in the morning, after waking up and before eating.
If your prolactin is high, your doctor might also suggest:
  • An MRI scan to check for a pituitary tumour.
  • Thyroid function tests.
  • Reviewing your current medications.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should speak to a doctor if you notice:
  • Missed periods or difficulty conceiving.
  • Milky discharge from the breasts (especially if not pregnant).
  • Low sex drive or other sexual problems.
  • Ongoing headaches or vision issues.
Early diagnosis can help manage the issue more effectively and prevent complications.
You’re not alone in your journey when trying to conceive. Join our supportive community to connect with others, share experiences, and find encouragement every step of the way.

FAQs on Not Pregnant or Breastfeeding, But Still Have Milk? Here’s Why

  1. Can high prolactin levels go away on their own?
    Sometimes, a mild rise due to stress or a temporary reason may normalise without treatment. But if the cause is a tumour or another health condition, medical help is needed to manage it.
  2. Can high prolactin cause infertility in both men and women?
    Yes, high prolactin affects the hormones responsible for reproduction. In women, it can stop ovulation. In men, it may reduce sperm production and lower testosterone levels, affecting fertility.
  3. What foods or lifestyle changes can help lower prolactin naturally?
    While food alone can't treat high prolactin, reducing stress, getting proper sleep, avoiding tight chestwear, and maintaining a healthy thyroid can support hormonal balance. Always consult a doctor before trying natural remedies.

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