GALACTORRHEA-AMENORRHEA SYNDROME

Galactorrhea-amenorrhea syndrome is an uncommon endocrine condition that impacts postpartum women and is defined by excessive breast milk production, absence of ovulation, and the lack of regular menstrual cycles.

These signs last a long time (over six months) after a baby is born with this syndrome. The uterus may shrink due to the lack of regular hormonal cycles.  Some instances of galactorrhea-amenorrhea syndrome recover spontaneously, meaning hormone levels and sexual function normally.

SYMPTOMS

Galactorrhea-amenorrhea syndrome is an uncommon condition that induces symptoms like:

  • Abnormal breast milk production
  • Abnormal or lack of menstrual cycles
  • Ovulation after delivery for more than six months

Even if the woman is not feeding the infant, these symptoms appear. The pregnancy that accompanies the beginning of Galactorrhea-amenorrhea syndrome is frequently uncomplicated, as is delivery and the first few months of nursing. Regular menstrual periods do not return, and there is chronic discharge from the breasts, which can remain for years.

Other signs and symptoms could include:

  • Anxiety 
  • Emotional distress
  • Backaches
  • Headaches
  • Impaired vision
  • Stomach ache
  • Obesity

Women who have had this illness for a long period may notice a loss of uterine muscle tone and a reduction in uterine size.

DIAGNOSIS

Identifying the underlying cause of galactorrhea might be difficult due to a large number of factors.

The following may be included in the testing:

  • Physical exam. By gently inspecting the area of your nipple, your doctor may attempt to release the fluid from your nipple.
  • Blood test. This is to see how much prolactin is in your system.
  • Analysis of fluid discharged from the nipple. This is to see if the fluid contains fat droplets, which can assist the diagnosis of galactorrhea.
  • Imaging tests. This is done to get images of your breast tissue or to look for tumors.

TREATMENT

Galactorrhea treatment focuses on treating the underlying cause where necessary. Doctors aren’t always able to pinpoint the exact cause of your illness. If you experience unpleasant or persistent nipple discharge, your doctor may still recommend therapy. A drug that blocks prolactin’s effects or decreases your body’s prolactin level could help you get rid of galactorrhea.

Bromocriptine, a prolactin-lowering drug, could be administered. Normal ovulation cycles and regular menstrual periods may be regained when these levels are reduced. 

However, if a tumor is found, it may be difficult to treat if it is small. Bigger tumors may require surgery to be removed.

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