What is a Prolactin Test?
The prolactin test is utilized to measure the levels of prolactin present in the bloodstream. Prolactin is produced by the pituitary gland, a small gland located near the brain. Prolactin plays a crucial role in the growth of women's breasts and the production of milk, particularly during pregnancy or postpartum.
- During pregnancy or postpartum, women typically have higher levels of prolactin in their bodies.
- Women who are not pregnant and men generally have lower levels of prolactin.
- Elevated levels of prolactin may indicate the presence of a pituitary gland tumour known as a prolactinoma.
- Prolactinomas can cause excessive release of prolactin by the gland, leading to issues such as lactation when not pregnant.
- In women, excessive prolactin can also result in menstrual irregularities and difficulties in conceiving.
- In men, it can lead to problems such as erectile dysfunction.
- Prolactinomas are typically noncancerous, but if left untreated, they can cause damage to surrounding tissues.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat is the use of the Prolactin Test?
Prolactin tests are most commonly used for:
- Prolactinoma detection (a type of tumour of the pituitary gland)
- Assist in determining the reason for a woman's menstrual irregularity and infertility.
- Assist in determining the reason for a man's low-sex desire and erectile dysfunction.
What is the need for a Prolactin Level Test?
If you experience signs of prolactinoma, you may require this test. Symptoms could include:
- Production of breast milk even when you are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Nipple discharge
- Headaches
- Changes in vision
Other symptoms vary depending on whether you're a male or a female. If you are a woman, your symptoms will also be affected by whether or not you have gone through menopause. Menopause normally begins around the age of 50 for a woman.
Excess prolactin symptoms in women who have not gone through menopause are:
- Irregular periods
- Infertility
- Stopped periods before the age of 40, also known as premature menopause
- Breast tenderness
Women who have had menopause may not have symptoms until the problem progresses. Excess prolactin after menopause frequently results in hypothyroidism. The body does not produce enough thyroid hormone in this situation.
Symptoms of excess prolactin in men include:
- Nipple discharge
- Low sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decrease in body hair
What happens during a Prolactin Level Test?
During a prolactin level test, a small needle will be used by a healthcare expert to draw blood from a vein. After the insertion of the needle, a small amount of blood will be collected in a test tube or vial. You may feel a slight sting or discomfort when the needle goes in or out. This normally takes five minutes.
How do prepare for the Prolactin Test?
This test should be taken three to four hours after waking up. Prolactin levels fluctuate throughout the day but are typically highest in the early morning.
Make sure your doctor is aware of any medications you are taking. Certain medications can cause an increase in prolactin levels. Birth control drugs, blood pressure medication, and antidepressants are examples.
Is there any risk in the test?
No, there is no such major risk or danger associated with the test. You may experience discomfort or bruising where the needle was inserted, it will go soon.
What do the findings imply?
If your prolactin levels are greater than usual, you may have one of the following conditions:
- Prolactinoma
- Hypothyroidism
- A condition affecting the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is a brain region that regulates the pituitary gland and other bodily processes.
- The illness of the liver
If your prolactin levels are high, your doctor may conduct an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) examination to examine your pituitary gland in more detail. Prolactin levels that are too high can be addressed with medication or surgery. If you have any concerns about your results, speak with your doctor.
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Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
A prolactin level test is used to diagnose a prolactinoma (a type of tumour in the pituitary gland) and assist in determining the reason for a woman's menstrual irregularity and infertility. Assist in determining the source of a man's low-sex desire and erectile dysfunction.
A high level of prolactin inhibits the synthesis of the hormones estrogen and testosterone. In females, too much prolactin can potentially prevent the release of an egg during the menstrual cycle (anovulation). Too much prolactin in guys can also contribute to reduced sperm production and bone deterioration (osteoporosis)
The normal range for prolactin in:
- Males: 2 to 18 nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL)
- Nonpregnant females: 2 to 29 ng/mL.
- Pregnant females: 10 to 209 ng/mL.
Yes, high levels of prolactin can also result in weight gain.
Prolactin levels can be examined at any time throughout your menstrual cycle. Prolactin levels fluctuate throughout the day, but they are highest when you are sleeping and first thing in the morning; thus the test is normally performed three hours after you get up.
Yes, prolactin can be the reason for infertility in women and also in men.
Yes, one must fast for 8 to 12 hours without eating before the test, however, you can drink water before the test.
Prolactin levels above 100 ng/mL can disrupt a woman's reproductive system's normal function, resulting in menopausal symptoms and infertility.
The price of the Prolactin Test is approximately Rs. 600 however it can vary due to certain factors like place or hospital.
You can avail Prolactin Test at Medicover Hospitals. It offers a wide range of diagnostic facilities.
