Rachel you said, " That's why I asked how low supply could be caused by too much prolactin. I still don't understand." It is my rudimentary understanding understanding that while prolactinomas may increase overall prolactin levels, there are other factors that could cause low milk supply, even in the presence of ample prolactin. First off, the prolactin receptor sites must be functioning well (as with any hormone in the blood stream, we can measure what is there but we can't really tell how well the receptor sites are working). Secondly, the pressure of the prolactinoma on the pituitary (the "master gland") may decrease other pituitary hormones that are essential for so many lactation and fertility related processes. The anterior and posterior portions of the pituitary secrete various hormones so depending on where the tumor is located various hormones could be affected. Also, the pituitary is a key player in the HPA axis, which hugely affects the adrenals, thyroid, etc. So I think it is fair to say that other, complex factors could certainly lead to low milk supply even in the presence of high prolactin levels. Melissa Cole, IBCLC Portland, OR/Vancouver, WA *********************************************** Archives: http://community.lsoft.com/archives/LACTNET.html To reach list owners: [log in to unmask] Mail all list management commands to: [log in to unmask] COMMANDS: 1. To temporarily stop your subscription write in the body of an email: set lactnet nomail 2. To start it again: set lactnet mail 3. To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet 4. To get a comprehensive list of rules and directions: get lactnet welcome