[Interferences between prolactin and ovarian function (author's transl)]

In the normal subject, hypoprolactinic agents have a dose-dependent effect on the fall in prolactin (PRL). The depression of the secretion of progesterone is proportional to the inhibition of PRL. Certain hyperprolactinic substances do not alter pituitary-ovarian function. Others induce a luteal deficiency. The prolactinic profile of ovarian function without galactorrhoea is inconstant. There is no precise link between the possibility of inducing ovulation and PRL levels. Galactorrhoea without amenorrhoea is often accompanied by a normal PRL. By contrast, a high PRL, whilst not necessarily causing galactorrhoea, is usually accompanied by hypo-oestrogenic amenorrhoea (normo- or hypo-gonadaotrophic). Puerperal lactation results in a state of relative hyperprolactinaemia, which does not prevent relatively rapid restoration of FSH gonadotrophic function, to which the ovary fails to respond. Artificial weaning by bromocriptine permits a more rapid return of pituitary-ovarian function than natural weaning. Amenorrhoea-galactorrhoea is characterised by a PRL level which is abnormally high or at the upper limit of normal, and FSH gonadotrophic and ovarian/oestrogenic function which is abnormally low or at the lower limit of normal. LH gonadotrophic function and the ovarian production of progesterone are diminished.