What can cause galactorrhea?

Galactorrhea, the abnormal flow of breast milk in individuals not currently breastfeeding or pregnant, is primarily associated with hormonal imbalances. The most common causes of these imbalances include elevated levels of prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates breast milk production. Conditions such as pituitary tumors, hypothyroidism, and certain medications can lead to an increase in prolactin levels, ultimately resulting in galactorrhea.

In contrast, while stress and anxiety, over-exercise, and dietary deficiencies may impact overall health and hormonal levels, they are not direct or primary causes of galactorrhea. They can contribute to a general state of hormonal imbalance but do not specifically trigger the excessive milk production characteristic of galactorrhea in the same way that specific hormonal alterations do. Understanding the primary role of hormones in regulating breast milk production is crucial in recognizing the mechanisms behind galactorrhea.