Impact of Helicobacter Pylori Infection on Prolactin Levels in Reproductive-Age Women to Determine Whether H. Pylori Infection is Associated with Elevated Prolactin Levels and Assess the Clinical Implications

Study Design and Setting Cross-sectional observational study

Conducted at Assiut University Hospital

Sample size: 75 women

Participants Inclusion criteria: Women aged 18-45, confirmed H. pylori infection, reproductive age

Exclusion criteria

Recent antibiotic or PPI use, endocrine disorders, chronic illnesses affecting prolactin

Data Collection Participant recruitment from outpatient clinics

Laboratory assessments:

Stool antigen test for H. pylori using ELISA method

Serum prolactin measurement via chemiluminescent immunoassay

Questionnaire for demographic information and medical history

Outcome Measures Primary: Serum prolactin levels in H. pylori-positive vs. negative women

Secondary: Correlation with clinical symptoms and demographic factors

Analysis The study will compare prolactin levels between H. pylori-positive and negative groups, analyze correlations with symptoms, and assess the influence of demographic factors on prolactin levels and H. pylori prevalence.

Inclusion criteria

• 1. Age Range: Women aged 18 to 45 years. 2. Diagnosis of H. pylori Infection: Participants must have a confirmed diagnosis of H. pylori infection through non-invasive methods such as stool antigen tests or breath tests and IgM serum.

• Reproductive Age: Women must be within reproductive age and not currently pregnant or breastfeeding

Exclusion criteria

• 1. Recent Antibiotic Use: Individuals who have taken antibiotics within the last month will be excluded to avoid interference with H. pylori detection.

• Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Patients using PPIs or other medications that affect gastric acid secretion within the last month will be excluded.

• Endocrine Disorders: Women with known endocrine disorders such as hyperprolactinemia from other causes will be excluded.

• Chronic Illnesses: Individuals with chronic illnesses that could affect prolactin levels (e.g., renal failure, liver disease) will also be excluded.