Comparison of Prolactin Levels in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Women without PCOS in North Sumatra

Abstract

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most frequent endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age, marked by persistent anovulation and elevated androgen levels. Prolactin, a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland, likewise plays a vital role in reproductive function. Elevated prolactin levels, or hyperprolactinemia, may disturb gonadotropin regulation, ovulation, and fertility. However, the relationship between PCOS and prolactin imbalance remains controversial. This study aimed to compare the serum prolactin levels of women with PCOS to those of women without PCOS in North Sumatra. Methods: A comparative analytic observational study was conducted involving 120 women aged 18–45 years, consisting of 60 women diagnosed with PCOS and 60 without PCOS, based on the 2003 Rotterdam criteria. Serum prolactin levels were determined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Statistical analyses were conducted using an independent t-test to compare prolactin levels and a Pearson correlation test to examine their association with age and body mass index (BMI). Results: The mean serum prolactin level was significantly higher in women with PCOS (3.99 ± 0.58 ng/mL) compared to non-PCOS women (3.41 ± 0.47 ng/mL; p < 0.001). No significant correlation was found between prolactin and age (p = 0.412) or BMI (p = 0.298). Conclusion: Prolactin levels were found to be significantly higher in women with PCOS than in those without PCOS in North Sumatra. Age and BMI did not influence prolactin concentrations, suggesting that prolactin elevation may result from intrinsic neuroendocrine factors in PCOS Routine evaluation of prolactin may help clinicians in the hormonal assessment and management of PCOS patients.