Prolactin Blood Test
A PRL test checks your blood for elevated prolactin levels to see how well your pituitary gland is working.
Prolactin And Your Pituitary Gland
Prolactin is a hormone made by your pituitary gland (a small gland situated at the base of your brain). This gland is often called the body’s control center because it regulates so many important bodily functions.
Some of these include growth, metabolism, reproduction, milk production in women, stress response, and water balance. It also signals other glands to release their hormones when needed. Therefore a PRL blood test is invaluable, as it helps check if this master gland is working the way it should.
Common Symptoms Of Pituitary Issues
If you are having irregular or missed periods, trouble getting pregnant, or nipple discharge (not related to breastfeeding), a prolactin blood test is strongly recommended. It is also highly recommended if you are experiencing symptoms like headaches, vision changes, or low libido or erectile dysfunction in men.
A Quick Look At What Your Results Could Mean
Low Prolactin Levels: Though rare, lower levels may be associated with pituitary gland dysfunction.
Normal Prolactin Levels: Bear in mind that prolactin levels vary based on your gender and pregnancy status. Therefore your doctor will interpret your results based on these factors.
High Prolactin Levels: Also known as hyperprolactinemia, higher prolactin levels could point to conditions like a pituitary tumour (prolactinoma) or hypothyroidism.
Core Blood Markers
A prolactin blood test mainly looks for the presence of the prolactin hormone in your blood. Sometimes it is also used to screen for Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH).
PRICING
Prolactin Blood Test
Initial Consultation: Free
Blood Draw Fee: This fee is in addition to the cost of all blood tests taken face-to-face at Healand Clinic: £30
Home Nurse Blood Draw Fee: If you opt to have a nurse visit your home to draw your blood sample, this is carried out via our partner service via our laboratory, which incurs a fee of £60
Pre-Test Information
Since prolactin levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day, your blood draw will typically be done in the morning (preferably 3 to 4 hours after waking up). However, there is no other special preparation required.
Patients must be over the age of 18
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NEWS
FAQs
What do high prolactin levels usually indicate?
What are the gender-specific symptoms associated with higher prolactin levels?
In women it may include irregular or absent menstrual cycles, infertility, milky nipple discharge (galactorrhea), low libido, vaginal dryness, and headaches. In men you can typically expect to experience erectile dysfunction, reduced sperm production, loss of libido, gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue), and fatigue. In both sexes, vision disturbances and headaches are common when a pituitary tumor is present.
Can certain medications affect my prolactin levels?
Most definitely. Medications like certain antipsychotics, antidepressants, hormonal contraceptives, opioids and pain relievers, as well as antihypertensives (blood pressure medications) can influence your prolactin levels.
Can high prolactin levels affect fertility?
It can. This is because higher prolactin levels can interfere with ovulation and menstrual cycles in women, making it difficult to conceive. In men, elevated prolactin can lower testosterone levels, reduce sperm production, and contribute to erectile dysfunction.
How do I know if my prolactin levels are normal?
It is important to note that normal prolactin levels vary depending on gender, age, and whether or not a person is pregnant or breastfeeding. Therefore it is not a cope and paste formula. However, in general, for non-pregnant women, normal levels range between 4.8 and 23.3 ng/mL. For men, normal levels range between 2.1 and 17.7 ng/mL.
