Low milk hormone, also known as low prolactin levels, can lead to inadequate milk production in lactating women. Prolactin is the hormone responsible for stimulating milk production in the mammary glands, so low levels of this hormone can make it difficult for women to produce enough milk for their infants.
There are several reasons why a woman may have low prolactin levels. Here are some of the most common causes:
Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, including low levels of estrogen or thyroid hormone, can lead to low prolactin levels.
Stress: Stress can interfere with hormone production, including prolactin production. When the body is under stress, the production of cortisol, the stress hormone, can interfere with prolactin production.
Certain medications: Certain medications, such as dopamine agonists, can interfere with prolactin production and lead to low milk hormone levels.
Pituitary disorders: The pituitary gland is responsible for producing and regulating several hormones in the body, including prolactin. Pituitary disorders, such as a tumor or injury to the pituitary gland, can interfere with prolactin production.
Breast surgery or injury: Breast surgery or injury can damage the nerves and ducts in the breast, which can lead to low milk hormone levels.
Malnutrition: Malnutrition, particularly a deficiency in protein or zinc, can lead to low milk hormone levels.
Weaning: When a woman stops breastfeeding, prolactin levels decrease, which can lead to a decrease in milk production.
If you are experiencing low milk hormone levels, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. Treatment may include medications to increase prolactin production, hormone replacement therapy, or changes in diet and lifestyle to address any nutritional deficiencies.
