Prolactin and Lactation: A Study on Galactorrhea and Bone Health
Author Information
Author(s): Gabrielle Page-Wilson, Patricia C. Smith, Corrine K. Welt
Primary Institution: Massachusetts General Hospital
Hypothesis
Does recombinant human prolactin (r-hPRL) administration affect lactation and bone turnover in healthy women?
Conclusion
Recombinant human prolactin can induce expressible galactorrhea without negatively impacting bone turnover or menstrual cycle length.
Supporting Evidence
- Five of nine participants who received r-hPRL developed expressible galactorrhea.
- Prolactin levels increased significantly during r-hPRL administration.
- Urinary deoxypyridinoline decreased in the r-hPRL group.
Takeaway
This study shows that a hormone called prolactin can help some women produce milk without hurting their bones or messing up their periods.
Methodology
Healthy, non-postpartum women participated in a seven-day randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of r-hPRL.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported side effects and participant selection.
Limitations
The study was limited to a small sample size and short duration of treatment.
Participant Demographics
Healthy women aged 21-38 years with regular menstrual cycles.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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