Prolactin

The anterior pituitary produces prolactin, which is produced in spurts. Because of the increased production of progesterone and oestrogen during pregnancy, the concentration of prolactin increases. Postpartum lactation is caused by prolactin's stimulating effect on the breast gland. Fertility issues in both men and women are primarily caused by hyperprolactinemia. Prolactin levels are used to diagnose azoospermia, gynecomastia, hyperprolactinemic amenorrhoea and galactorrhea, and anovular cycles. When pituitary tumours and breast cancer are suspected, prolactin levels are also measured.