Normal ovulation is a complex process that requires many things to happen properly and at the correct time with the proper hormone levels. Often subtle hormonal imbalances or ovulation abnormalities result in decreased fertility. One hormone imbalance that can affect fertility is prolactin levels. High prolactin levels in nonpregnant women is known as hyperprolactinemia.

Prolactin is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain. In nonpregnant women, prolactin circulates in low levels in the bloodstream. When a woman is pregnant the amount of prolactin increase tenfold and stimulate milk production. High prolactin can create several problems including: