Prolactin Test

Delving Deeper into Hormone Health

With Prolactin Test

Prolactin test is a blood test used to measure the levels of the hormone prolactin, which is produced by the pituitary gland, in the bloodstream. Prolactin plays a vital role in various physiological processes; primarily related to reproduction and breast milk production. The test is often carried out to understand fertility issues, identify causes of irregular menstrual cycles, assess the reason for breast discharge, and determine the cause of hormonal imbalance. The results of prolactin tests are generally interpreted alongside a person’s medical history and other clinical findings to determine the underlying cause of a condition and further treatment action.

Overview of the Key Aspects of Prolactin Test:

What Different Levels of Prolactin Indicate: 

Prolactin levels in individuals vary according to the age, sex, and certain physiological conditions. Normal prolactin levels are measured in nanograms per millilitre or micrograms per litre. For most non-pregnant women, normal prolactin levels are less than 20 ng/mL. During pregnancy, prolactin levels increase significantly and can reach a level of 200 ng/mL in some cases; which is considered to be normal in the context of pregnancy. In men, the normal levels of prolactin are generally less than 15 ng/mL. Elevated levels of prolactin, known as hyperprolactinemia can be due to various factors including stress, medications, and underlying medical conditions. Further testing is required when prolactin levels are found slightly elevated than the normal range.

Procedure: 

●       Before the test is scheduled, a consultation with a healthcare provider is needed to understand the reasons for conducting the test.

●       While there is no specific preparation required, patients must follow any instructions given to them by their healthcare providers.

●       During the test, the phlebotomist or the nurse will clean the area on the arm from where the blood sample is to be collected with an antiseptic solution.

●       A tourniquet is then tied to the arm to make sure the vein is more visible to make the collection easy.

●       A needle is then inserted in the vein in the patient’s arm and blood samples are collected in specific tubes.

●       The needle is then removed and a bandage is applied to the area of venipuncture to stop further bleeding or infection.

●       The tubes are then labelled accurately and sent to the laboratory for analysis of prolactin levels in the blood.

●       Prolactin levels can vary throughout the day so the levels are interpreted in the context of a patient's symptoms and clinical history.

●    Depending on the results and your specific situation, your healthcare provider may recommend further testing, particularly if the prolactin levels are significantly elevated.

Benefits: 

●       Relatively quick, painless, and safe procedure

●       Helps in diagnosis of underlying medical conditions that affect prolactin levels such as pituitary tumors or other pituitary disorders

●       Helps in identification of fertility issues and aids in tailoring appropriate treatment approaches

●       Helps in diagnosing underlying causes of menstrual irregularities

●       Helps in monitoring the treatment progression or the need for dosage modification of certain medications

●    Helps in early detection of underlying issues that cause elevation of prolactin levels and aids in implementation of appropriate treatment approaches to prevent progression of health issues

Precautions to be taken for Prolactin Test: 

Patients must inform their healthcare provider about any medications or supplements that they are taking as some drugs such as antidepressants and blood pressure medications can affect the levels of prolactin in the body. In most cases fasting is not required, but healthcare providers can instruct patients to do it sometimes. Patients are advised not to undergo strenuous exercise before the test as stress can elevate prolactin levels. It is also advisable for the patients to avoid nipple stimulation before the test as it can increase prolactin levels temporarily. In case patients have any concern, they should discuss with the healthcare provider before the procedure.