Sheehan Syndrome

Pituitary necrosis and panhypopituitarism due to severe postpartum bleeding.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 10, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Sheehan Syndrome?

Sheehan syndrome is a panhypopituitarism picture developing with ischemic necrosis of the anterior pituitary lobe after severe postpartum hemorrhage or hypovolemic shock. The pituitary gland, which physiologically enlarges during pregnancy, becomes more sensitive to decreased blood flow and is easily damaged.

The clinical picture is variable; while some patients show early findings such as failure to lactate and absence of menstruation, in other patients delayed diagnosis can be made years later as hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, and hypogonadism.

Thanks to modern obstetric care, it is rare in developed countries while it continues to be an important problem in developing countries.

Symptoms

Failure to lactate (prolactin deficiency)

Absence of postpartum menses (amenorrhea)

Excessive fatigue and weakness

Cold intolerance and weight gain (hypothyroidism)

Hypotension and dizziness (adrenal insufficiency)

Loss of sexual desire and vaginal atrophy

Loss of pubic and axillary hair

Risk Factors

Severe postpartum hemorrhage

Hypovolemic shock

Placenta previa and placental abruption

Atony and disseminated intravascular coagulation

Low income and inadequate obstetric care

Multiple deliveries

Pre-existing pituitary sensitivity

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Postpartum failure to lactate and amenorrhea
Postpartum severe fatigue and hypotension
Development of cold intolerance and weight gain
Unexplained electrolyte disturbance
Change in consciousness with stress or infection (emergency)

Treatment Methods

Glucocorticoid replacement (hydrocortisone)

Hypothyroidism treatment with levothyroxine (after steroid)

Estrogen-progesterone replacement (reproductive age)

Growth hormone replacement (selected patients)

Desmopressin (if DI accompanies)

Stress dose steroid education and lifelong follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Endokrinoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Sheehan syndrome is a postpartum hypopituitarism developing after necrosis of the anterior pituitary gland following severe postpartum hemorrhage and hypovolemic shock; it manifests with failure to lactate, amenorrhea, fatigue, and adrenal insufficiency.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.