#132: Prolactin: The Hormone You Didn't Know You Needed to Check

Oct 1, 2025

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Womanhood Wellness is where functional medicine meets feminine wisdom—guiding you to balance hormones, awaken libido, and prepare for pregnancy with intention. Join today

What if the hormone blocking your ovulation is the same one draining your desire?

This episode is all about prolactin… a hormone made by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in breastfeeding. We get into how high prolactin can impact fertility, libido, and even dopamine, and why stress, sleep, exercise, and certain medications push it out of balance. There are natural ways to bring prolactin back into range, from nutrients like B6 and magnesium to lifestyle shifts. This is the hormone no one’s talking about, but everyone should understand.

You’ll Learn:

[00:00] Introduction

[03:52] The surprising role prolactin plays in fertility, libido, and postpartum health

[06:29] The push-pull between prolactin and dopamine that impacts desire and motivation

[10:08] Why ADHD symptoms often worsen postpartum when prolactin rises

[12:33] How high prolactin can block ovulation, your body’s natural “birth control”

[14:04] How elevated prolactin shortens luteal phases and lowers progesterone

[15:30] Hidden triggers of prolactin imbalance

[23:44] The critical lab-testing tip that prevents false high prolactin results

[26:09] How nutrient deficiencies and marijuana use can silently drive prolactin higher

[28:09] Symptoms that reveal a prolactin problem

[35:38] Prolactin’s purposeful role in suppressing sex drive during breastfeeding

[38:17] How modern lifestyle stressors mimic postpartum and confuse prolactin levels

[55:20] Natural supports that bring prolactin back in balance

Find more from Dr. Leah:

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Dr. Leah Gordon | Website

Womanhood Wellness | Website

Find more from Dr. Morgan:

Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Instagram

Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Website

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