Pituitary Disorders & Pregnancy
Answers to common questions about pituitary disorders & pregnancy.
Questions on this page
- Can women with pituitary tumours become pregnant?
- Can prolactinoma affect pregnancy?
- Can a pituitary tumour grow during pregnancy?
- What if I have a macroprolactinoma and want to become pregnant?
- Can a pituitary tumour cause infertility?
- What happens if I have pituitary hormone deficiency during pregnancy?
- Can adrenal insufficiency affect pregnancy?
Can women with pituitary tumours become pregnant?
Many women with pituitary tumours can have successful pregnancies, but management depends on the type and size of the tumour and its hormone activity.
Can prolactinoma affect pregnancy?
Yes. Prolactinomas can affect ovulation and fertility before pregnancy and may require specific planning once pregnancy occurs.
Can a pituitary tumour grow during pregnancy?
Some pituitary tumours can enlarge during pregnancy. The risk depends strongly on the tumour type and size.
What if I have a macroprolactinoma and want to become pregnant?
Pregnancy planning should be discussed with an endocrinologist. Tumour size, prolactin level, visual symptoms and previous treatment are important considerations.
Can a pituitary tumour cause infertility?
Yes. Abnormal prolactin or deficiencies of LH and FSH can interfere with ovulation or testosterone production.
What happens if I have pituitary hormone deficiency during pregnancy?
Hormone replacement may need to be monitored and adjusted. For example, women with central hypothyroidism or adrenal insufficiency require specific pregnancy management.
Can adrenal insufficiency affect pregnancy?
Yes. Women with adrenal insufficiency require careful monitoring and appropriate glucocorticoid replacement throughout pregnancy and during labour.