SERUM PROLACTIN LEVELS IN POSTPILL AMENORRHEIC PATIENTS

OBJECTIVES: In this study, we evaluated the importance of the determination of serum prolactin levels in postpill amenorrheic patients. METHODS: Serum estradiol and prolactin levels were determined in 37 postpill amenorrheic patients. Bromocriptine was administered to the hyperprolactinemic group and clomiphene citrate to the normoprolactinemic group. RESULTS: Hyperprolactinemia was observed in 21 patients (56.7%) and serum estradiol levels < 50 pg/ml were found in 19 of these patients. The mean prolactin level was 71.90 +/- 23.05 ng/ml in the hyperprolactinemic group. While bromocriptine had a significant effect on the length of time for menstrual bleeding to return (P < 0.001), clomifene had no effect. CONCLUSIONS: No treatment is required for the postpill amenorrheic patients with normal estradiol and prolactin levels. If hyperprolactinemia is detected, bromocriptine may be used as a treatment to promote normal menstrual bleeding and ovulation.