Psychologic Aspects of Galactorrhea

Abstract

During their diagnostic examination 60 galactorrheic women were interviewed and given psychologic tests to explore their responses to galactorrhea in general as well as in association with differing prolactinemic states. Normoprolactinemic and hyperprolactinemic patients were compared with each other and with 24 nursing mothers. Reactions to the galactorrhea itself were often marked, and the discharge tended to revive adolescent conflicts. Psychologic reactions sometimes reinforced breast manipulation, possibly maintaining the galactorrhea. the incidence of depression and diminished libido among the hyperprolactinemic patients was significantly greater than among the normoprolactinemic patients or the nursing mothers. Psychologic management should include educational measures as well as helping the patient to separate fact from fantasy.