Understanding Lactation After an Antipsychotic Injection

When will lactation stop, especially when it has persisted for nearly two years following an antipsychotic injection? Specifically, if you have taken an antipsychotic injection and your prolactin level increased to 29 ng/mL, it is understandable that the lactation did not stop. In countries like the United States, where injections are not commonly used for this purpose, it often indicates that another underlying factor might be responsible for the prolonged lactation. It is highly recommended that you consult a gynecologist or a reproductive endocrinologist to investigate the cause and ensure your overall health.

For instance, my own experience led me to seek medical advice. After consulting with a doctor, I was given the option to receive additional hormonal treatments to balance out the prolactin levels or wait for the prolactin to naturally decrease as I plan to have a child, which will cause my milk to dry up. I chose not to opt for additional hormones as they did not suit my needs. Consequently, I have two beautiful children and after over a year without breastfeeding, I still experience slight lactation. The decision to wait and observe the natural course of events seems to be working for me.

For those who are still experiencing lactation after a prolonged period, it is crucial to seek professional medical advice from a specialist. Your healthcare provider can guide you on the best course of action to manage your condition.

Impact of Prolactinomas on Breastfeeding

A prolactinoma is a non-cancerous tumor in the pituitary gland that secretes excessive amounts of prolactin. Common symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, breast milk discharge, headaches, and difficulty conceiving. These tumors are the primary cause of high prolactin levels, affecting approximately 27% of people, though many do not exhibit symptoms.

Women between the ages of 20 and 50 are more frequently diagnosed with prolactinomas. They are commonly treated with cabergoline, a dopamine-agonist medication, which reduces prolactin secretion. Many women who have had prolactinomas can become pregnant once their prolactin levels are regulated. During pregnancy, prolactinomas tend to remain stable without significant growth, especially if the tumor was previously treated with dopamine agonists, radiation, or surgery.

Key Points and Statements About Prolactinomas and Breastfeeding

Based on the review Prolactinoma through the Female Life Cycle, several true statements can be identified regarding prolactinomas and breastfeeding:

In healthy, breastfeeding women without a prolactinoma, prolactin levels are typically lower postpartum than during pregnancy. This is due to the reduced need for prolactin to stimulate milk production after the baby is born. Women who have had a prolactinoma surgically removed before pregnancy have a 30% chance of experiencing adequate lactation postpartum. This outcome is relatively common if the tumor was previously well-managed. There are no absolute contraindications to breastfeeding as long as there is no symptomatic tumor enlargement during pregnancy. Regular monitoring is essential to ensure the safety of both the mother and the infant. Women with a prolactinoma can take a dopamine agonist such as cabergoline to manage prolactin levels and still be successful at breastfeeding. However, individual responses to treatment may vary. Pregnancy can act as a therapeutic intervention for pituitary adenomas. Up to 70% of women may see remission of their prolactinoma postpartum, whether they are breastfeeding or not. This remission is attributed to the natural hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. Women who undergo dopamine agonist treatment for prolactinoma for two years have a 24-69% risk of recurrence after medication withdrawal. This highlights the importance of addressing any recurrence early and continuing appropriate management.

In conclusion, prolonged lactation following an antipsychotic injection can be managed with the help of a healthcare professional. Understanding the underlying causes, such as prolactinomas, and exploring treatment options can help mitigate the issue. Regular check-ups and open communication with your doctor are essential in ensuring both your health and the well-being of your baby.

References:

Prolactinoma through the Female Life Cycle. (n.d.).