A Prolactin test measures the levels of prolactin in your blood. This hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland, a small gland located near the base of the brain. Prolactin's main role is to promote breast tissue growth during pregnancy and milk production after childbirth. Therefore, prolactin levels are typically elevated in pregnant women and new mothers.

Elevated prolactin levels in men and non-pregnant, non-nursing women can cause breast milk production. In women, this condition, known as hyperprolactinaemia, can interfere with ovarian function, leading to menstrual irregularities and infertility. In men, increased prolactin can disrupt testicular function, resulting in reduced sex drive or erectile dysfunction.

Elevated prolactin levels can result from various conditions, including pituitary gland disorders, hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), or the use of certain medications. While a Prolactin test cannot determine the cause of high prolactin levels, it can provide valuable information for your doctor to decide on further tests to diagnose your symptoms.

In cities like Mumbai, this test can be useful for identifying whether symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, infertility, and reduced sex drive are due to altered prolactin levels or stress-related conditions. Thus, book a Prolactin test in Mumbai today if you have symptoms of abnormal prolactin levels for timely intervention and care.

Here are some key details regarding the S Prolactin test that you should be aware of before scheduling one:

Prerequisites

No special preparations are needed for a Prolactin test. The test only requires a blood sample. However, if your doctor orders other tests that necessitate fasting, you may be advised to fast for a few hours before the Prolactin test.

Best Time to Get Tested

Since fasting is not necessary, the blood sample for the Prolactin test can be taken at any time of the day. However, if you are undergoing additional tests, your doctor may suggest an ideal time to have the tests done.

When is the Prolactin Test Recommended

The Prolactin test is primarily used to diagnose a type of pituitary tumour known as prolactinoma, which causes the pituitary gland to produce excess prolactin. People diagnosed with prolactinoma are regularly monitored with this test to assess the effectiveness of treatment and to check for tumour recurrence post-treatment. The test is also advised if you exhibit symptoms of high prolactin levels, which differ between men and women.

In women, symptoms may include:

• Irregular menstrual cycles

• Nipple discharge or milk production without being pregnant or breastfeeding

• Infertility

In men, symptoms may include:

• Decreased sex drive

• Erectile dysfunction

• Reduced facial and body hair

• Enlarged breasts

• Nipple discharge

Additionally, the Prolactin test may be recommended for women who have low prolactin levels and are unable to produce sufficient breast milk after childbirth.

Cautions Before Doing the Prolactin Test

The Prolactin test is typically safe and straightforward, with no special precautions needed. However, certain medications can affect prolactin levels, so it's important to inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking.

A Prolactin Blood test at home is commonly ordered alongside other tests in these situations:

• To determine the cause of:

• • Irregular menstrual cycles in women

  • Nipple discharge or milk production in men and nonpregnant women

  • Erectile dysfunction in men

  • Low sex drive and fertility issues in both men and women

• To measure the prolactin levels of recent mothers who produce less milk after delivery.

• To diagnose pituitary tumours:

• • This test helps in diagnosing a prolactinoma. Untreated prolactinomas can lead to headaches, vision changes, and reduced levels of other pituitary hormones like thyroid and cortisol hormones. Your doctor may also suggest imaging studies to check for pituitary tumours.

• To monitor a prolactinoma and assess treatment efficacy. Retesting is also conducted post-treatment to check for tumour recurrence.

The normal range of prolactin in the blood is as follows:

Depending on your gender, symptoms, medical history, and other test results, your doctor will interpret your Serum Prolactin test results. High prolactin levels in men and nonpregnant women may indicate conditions such as:

• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in women

• Cirrhosis or liver scarring

• Hypothyroidism

• Kidney disease

• Disorders affecting the hypothalamus, which controls the pituitary gland and other vital functions

• Prolactinoma or other pituitary gland disorders

Low prolactin levels are uncommon but may suggest a pituitary problem. Insufficient prolactin can prevent a woman from producing enough breast milk after childbirth. Since prolactin levels fluctuate, your doctor may recommend retesting to confirm the results.