Breast examination does not elevate serum prolactin

Serum prolactin and cortisol levels were measured in 24 patients entering the Royal Victoria Hospital infertility center both before and after a thorough physical examination that included a pelvic examination and a search for galactorrhea in both breasts. There was no significant change in the levels of prolactin or cortisol in the group as a whole in those with normal prolactin values and those with high basal prolactin values (P less than 0.05). The possible role of stress in the mediation of occasional elevation of basal prolactin values is discussed in relation to the serum cortisol levels.