My prolactin came back slightly high. Should I be worried for fertility?

Prolactin is a hormone from the pituitary gland, mainly known for milk production. When it's significantly raised, it can disrupt ovulation and cause irregular or absent periods, and sometimes milky nipple discharge. A slightly high result, however, is quite common and often not meaningful. Prolactin levels can rise temporarily with stress (including the stress of a blood test), poor sleep, a heavy meal, exercise, breast stimulation or examination, and after intercourse. Several medicines can raise it, including some antidepressants, anti-nausea and acidity medicines and antipsychotics. An underactive thyroid can also raise prolactin. Sometimes a large form of prolactin called macroprolactin, which is not biologically active, causes a high reading. That's why repeating the test, ideally in the morning after resting quietly for a while, is a sensible next step. Your doctor may also check thyroid function and ask about medicines. If it stays clearly high, especially with irregular periods or symptoms like headaches or vision changes, further evaluation such as an MRI of the pituitary may be advised, and there are effective medicines when treatment is needed. Mention every medicine and supplement you take when you repeat the test, and follow your doctor's advice rather than starting anything on your own.