🌿 Prolactin Test
A key blood test to measure the hormone prolactin, important for reproductive health and other bodily functions.

🔍 What is it?

Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. It plays a vital role in lactation (milk production) after childbirth and also influences reproductive and metabolic functions.

Abnormal prolactin levels can indicate various medical conditions, including hormonal imbalances, pituitary gland disorders, or certain medications' effects.

🧪 What does it measure?

Prolactin hormone concentration in the blood

• Normal levels vary by age, sex, and pregnancy status
• Elevated levels (hyperprolactinemia) may suggest pituitary tumors (prolactinomas), hypothyroidism, or medication side effects
• Low levels are less common but can indicate pituitary dysfunction

🔎 Note: Levels can be temporarily affected by stress, exercise, sleep, and nipple stimulation, so blood is typically drawn after resting.

❓ Why might I need it?

You may be advised to have this test if you experience:

• 🍼 Unexplained breast milk production (galactorrhea) not related to childbirth
• 🔄 Menstrual irregularities or absence of periods (amenorrhea)
• 💔 Infertility or difficulty conceiving
• 🤕 Symptoms of pituitary tumors such as headaches or vision problems
• ❤️‍🔥 Low libido or erectile dysfunction in men
• 👶 To investigate causes of delayed puberty or hormone imbalances

🧬 Conditions it can help detect:

• Prolactinoma (pituitary gland tumor)
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Kidney disease
• Effects of certain medications (e.g., antipsychotics, antidepressants)
• Pituitary gland dysfunction or damage

🩺 How is it done?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm, usually in the morning when levels are highest.

• Avoid nipple stimulation and strenuous exercise before the test
• ⏳ Results typically available within 1–3 working days

💷 Typical Private Cost in the UK:

£30–£70 depending on the provider and if combined with other hormone tests

✅ Commonly Combined With:

•  Thyroid function tests (TSH, Free T4) – to rule out hypothyroidism
• FSH, LH, and estradiol/testosterone – to assess overall reproductive hormone status
• 🧠 MRI of the pituitary gland – if high prolactin suggests tumor

📚 References:

• NHS – Prolactin test overview
• Endocrine Society – Prolactin Disorders
• NICE – Pituitary Tumors and Hormonal Disorders