Not all breast milk discharge is caused by a pituitary tumour. One of the common causes is an increased level of prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production. High prolactin levels, also called hyperprolactinemia, can occur because of certain medicines, an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), kidney disease or a usually benign prolactin-producing pituitary tumour called a prolactinoma. Medicines used for psychiatric conditions, nausea and vomiting can sometimes increase prolactin. In some people, milk discharge occurs even when prolactin levels are normal. Persistent high prolactin can also interfere with menstrual cycles, fertility, testosterone levels and long-term bone health.

Finding the exact cause is important because treatment differs from person to person. A detailed review of symptoms, medicines and medical history, together with appropriate tests such as serum prolactin, thyroid function and pregnancy testing when relevant, helps identify the cause. Some patients may require an MRI of the pituitary gland, while others improve after correction of thyroid disease or appropriate adjustment of the responsible medicine. Prolactinomas can often be treated effectively with medicines, without surgery. Not everyone with galactorrhea requires treatment. Importantly, bloody discharge, spontaneous one-sided discharge or discharge associated with a breast lump requires separate breast evaluation.

Dr. Rajesh Moganti (MD, DM Endocrinology) provides evaluation and personalised treatment for galactorrhea, hyperprolactinemia, prolactinomas and other pituitary-related hormonal disorders at our Rajahmundry and Tanuku centres. Early assessment helps identify treatable causes, restore hormonal balance and address associated menstrual or fertility problems.