A completely unexpected diagnosis...

As I discussed in our previous post, I had a follow-up visit with my gynecologist to discuss my blood test results. Fully expecting to receive a diagnosis of PCOS, I was very surprised to find out that my ultrasound was completely normal and my blood work was all within the normal range, with the exception of my prolactin level. I was officially diagnosed with "Hyperprolactinemia" (fancy term for elevated prolactin level). This likely explains my irregular cycles.

What causes prolactinemia?
There are a few different reasons why the level might be elevated. One of the reasons can be an enlargement of the pituitary gland or a pituitary adenoma. Due to that, I have to have an MRI to rule-out this possibility. I'm waiting on my doctor to complete the pre-authorization process with my insurance company to get the MRI scheduled.

I have also been referred to work with a reproductive endocrinologist. I really like my gynecologist -- the doctor she has referred me to is the endocrinologist who helped her with her own infertility issues.

...Infertility?
Yeah... there really is no sugar-coating the fact that an elevated prolactin level suppresses ovulation. And, if I have a pituitary adenoma, it can make pregnancy more complicated (pregnancy hormones can cause the tumor to grow). I honestly thought I had PCOS, but that is often resolved with fairly simple medication to achieve pregnancy. This is a potentially more complicated diagnosis.

I hope this MRI can be scheduled soon, just so that I can meet with the reproductive endocrinologist soon.

I'm honestly feeling fairly defeated today. Pregnancy has been a constant and happy discussion in our home. Several of our friends have recently welcomed new babies or announced pregnancies. Of course, it is hard to not get caught up in the "why me?" and "why us?" We are also trying to avoid jumping to conclusions or relying on Google for answers before meeting with a specialist.

I will likely post again after I feel like I have my own emotions processed a little more around this situation.