Sheehan's syndrome is a rare complication of severe blood loss during childbirth that leads to decreased functioning of the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland doubles its size during pregnancy and is especially vulnerable to damage from decreased blood flow from low blood pressure or blood loss during childbirth. The pituitary controls thyroid activity, breast milk production and reproductive function, among other hormone activity. Damage to the pituitary causes a number of symptoms, some of which may not appear for several years, until a stressor occurs.
Hypothyroid Symptoms
The pituitary controls the thyroid; when the pituitary is damaged in Sheehan's syndrome, hypothyroidism develops. Symptoms of hypothyroidism are fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold all the time, decreased interest in sex and slowed mental function. Hypothyroid can cause hair loss or coarse, dry hair. Skin may also become dry and rough.
Reproductive Hormone Symptoms
Breast milk production ceases in Sheehan's syndrome, and may be the only symptom for several years after the pituitary is damaged, the University of Maryland Medical Center says. Breast milk never comes in after delivery or doesn't come in well. Menstrual periods change; they may stop altogether, called amenorrhea, or be irregular and infrequent, called oligomenorrhea. Public hair and underarm hair may disappear, and hot flashes may occur.
Other Symptoms
Hypopituitarism from Sheehan's syndrome can cause a number of other symptoms by affecting other hormone levels. Symptoms of low cortisol levels include low blood pressure, hypoglycemia, weakness and dizziness. Lack of growth hormone can lead to decreased muscle mass. Hoarse voice, joint pain, abdominal pain and headache may also result from hypopituitarism. Constipation, puffiness in the face from fluid retention and vision problems may also develop from Sheehan's syndrome.
