Prolactin Levels Test

Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that primarily regulates milk production in women. However, it also plays a role in reproductive health, sexual function, and immune system regulation. While prolactin is most often associated with lactation, it is present in both men and women, and abnormal prolactin levels can lead to a variety of health issues. A prolactin test is essential for diagnosing conditions like unexplained infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, and abnormal breast milk production.

Why It Matters:

• Lactation and milk production: Prolactin is responsible for stimulating milk production after childbirth. High prolactin levels can lead to unwanted breast milk production (galactorrhea) in women who are not breastfeeding, as well as in men.

• Reproductive health: Elevated prolactin levels can interfere with ovulation, leading to irregular or absent menstrual cycles and infertility. Low prolactin levels can sometimes affect milk production post-delivery.

• Pituitary disorders: Abnormal prolactin levels are often linked to problems with the pituitary gland, including benign tumors (prolactinomas) that can lead to symptoms like headaches, vision problems, and hormonal imbalances.

• Sexual function: High prolactin levels in both men and women can lead to decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, or anovulation (failure to ovulate), making it harder to conceive.

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Prolactin is sometimes elevated in women with PCOS, further complicating fertility issues or menstrual irregularities.

When to Consider a Prolactin Test:

• Unexplained infertility: If you’re experiencing difficulty conceiving, a prolactin test may help identify elevated levels that could be disrupting ovulation.

• Irregular menstrual cycles: If you have abnormal or absent periods, prolactin levels may be contributing to hormonal imbalances affecting the menstrual cycle.

• Unexplained breast milk production (galactorrhea): If you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding but are experiencing unexpected milk production, prolactin testing can help pinpoint the cause.

• Sexual dysfunction: For individuals experiencing low libido, erectile dysfunction, or other sexual health issues, high prolactin levels could be a contributing factor.

• Symptoms of pituitary tumors: Symptoms like headaches, visual disturbances, or hormonal imbalances may warrant prolactin testing to check for prolactinomas or other pituitary disorders.

• Monitoring pituitary disorders: If you’ve been diagnosed with a pituitary tumor or disorder, prolactin levels can help track the progression of the condition or the effectiveness of treatment.

How It Works:

A blood sample is taken to measure prolactin levels. In women, it’s typically tested during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle (day 3 of the cycle) for the most accurate results. Prolactin levels can fluctuate throughout the day and are usually highest during sleep or after stress, so your healthcare provider may suggest taking the test at a specific time. Results are compared to normal ranges, and if prolactin levels are abnormal, further diagnostic tests (such as imaging studies for pituitary tumors) may be recommended.

📍 Desert Mobile Medical offers mobile Prolactin Levels Test with physician-reviewed results and personalized follow-up — right from the comfort of your home.