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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Hormones

Prolactin

Prolactin is a pituitary hormone with wide-ranging effects on reproductive health, immune function, and metabolism. As part of comprehensive hormonal screening, monitoring prolactin can help identify potential pituitary or hormonal concerns.

Reference Ranges

Male
ug/l
Low 4 Normal 15.2 High
Female
ug/l
Low 4.8 Normal 23.3 High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

What It Measures

This test measures the concentration of prolactin in your blood. Prolactin is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and plays a role in breast milk production, reproductive function, and various metabolic and immune processes.

Why It Matters

A comprehensive health approach includes monitoring pituitary hormones like prolactin. Abnormal levels may be an early indicator of pituitary dysfunction or medication side effects that warrant further evaluation.

When to Test

Testing may be recommended if you experience irregular menstrual periods, unexplained milk discharge, infertility, decreased libido, or headaches and visual changes. Testing is typically done in the morning for most accurate results.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Low prolactin is uncommon and usually not associated with significant symptoms. In postpartum women, very low levels may be associated with difficulty breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.

High Levels

Elevated prolactin may be associated with irregular or absent periods, unexpected milk production, headaches, decreased libido, or erectile dysfunction in men. Very high levels could suggest a pituitary adenoma.

Lifestyle Tips

Stress management, adequate sleep, and avoiding medications known to raise prolactin may help maintain healthy levels. Regular exercise at moderate intensity is often beneficial. Consult your healthcare provider about any medications that may affect prolactin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can medications affect prolactin levels?
Yes, many medications including certain antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-nausea drugs can raise prolactin levels. Always inform your healthcare provider about your medications before testing.
Is prolactin testing only for women?
No, prolactin testing is important for both men and women. In men, elevated prolactin may affect testosterone levels, libido, and fertility.
What time of day should prolactin be tested?
Prolactin levels are typically highest in the early morning. Testing is usually recommended in the morning after fasting, while avoiding stress and strenuous exercise beforehand.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.