Lactogenic hormone

Lactogenic hormone, also known as prolactin, is a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland in the brain. Its primary function is to stimulate milk production (lactation) in women after childbirth.

Function

The lactogenic hormone is primarily responsible for the growth and development of the mammary glands during pregnancy and the production of milk after childbirth. It also plays a role in over 300 different functions in the body, including immune regulation and pancreatic development.

Production and Regulation

The production of the lactogenic hormone is regulated by the hypothalamus, a region of the brain directly connected to the pituitary gland. The hypothalamus releases dopamine, which inhibits the production of prolactin. When dopamine levels decrease, such as during pregnancy or breastfeeding, prolactin levels increase.

Clinical Significance

Abnormal levels of the lactogenic hormone can lead to several health conditions. High levels, known as hyperprolactinemia, can cause symptoms such as irregular menstrual periods and infertility in women, and low bone density and erectile dysfunction in men. Low levels of prolactin, although rare, can lead to poor milk production in nursing mothers.

See Also

• Pituitary gland
• Hypothalamus
• Milk production
• Hyperprolactinemia

References

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