Prolactin Test

What Is a Prolactin Test?

A prolactin test, also known as a PRL test, is a simple blood test that measures the level of prolactin hormone in your bloodstream. Prolactin is produced by your pituitary gland, a small but important gland located at the base of your brain.

The test uses a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. This test helps detect conditions related to abnormal prolactin levels, which can affect your reproductive health and indicate potential pituitary gland disorders.

What Does the Prolactin Test Measure?

The prolactin test measures the concentration of prolactin hormone in your blood to help doctors understand your hormonal health:

• Investigate irregular or absent menstrual periods in women.
• Determines potential causes of infertility in both men and women.
• Identifies the reason for unexpected milk discharge from breasts when not pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Diagnoses and monitors prolactinoma (a non-cancerous pituitary tumour).
• Evaluates symptoms like low sex drive or erectile dysfunction in men.
• Monitors treatment effectiveness for prolactin-related conditions.

Prolactin Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done

What Symptoms May Call for a Prolactin Test?

Your doctor may recommend a PRL test if you experience certain symptoms that vary between men and women:

For Women:

• Irregular or missed menstrual periods
• Difficulty getting pregnant
• Unexpected milk discharge from breasts
• Breast tenderness
• Vaginal dryness
• Unexplained acne or excessive facial hair

For Men:

• Decreased sex drive
• Difficulty with erections
• Breast tissue enlargement
• Fertility problems
• Rare cases of milk discharge from the breasts

For Both:

• Persistent headaches
• Vision problems

Who Should Get a Prolactin Test?

Several groups of people may benefit from this test:

• Individuals experiencing the symptoms mentioned above.
• Patients with known pituitary gland disorders requiring monitoring
• People taking certain medications that can affect prolactin levels.
• Women with unexplained infertility or menstrual irregularities.
• Men with sexual health concerns or fertility issues.

Why Is a Prolactin Test Done?

The PRL test serves as a crucial diagnostic tool to identify hormonal imbalances affecting reproductive health and helps doctors diagnose conditions like pituitary tumours, guiding appropriate treatment decisions.

Importance of a Prolactin Test

The prolactin test plays a vital role in women's and men's health by identifying treatable causes of fertility and reproductive issues. High prolactin levels are a common yet manageable cause of infertility, making early detection essential for successful treatment. This test directly helps diagnose prolactinoma, the most common hormone-producing pituitary tumour.

Early identification allows timely treatment that can restore fertility, regulate menstrual cycles, and relieve symptoms like headaches or vision changes. Prolactin test results guide treatment plans and help monitor how well medications are working, ensuring you receive the most effective care for your specific condition.

Prolactin Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare

How to Book a Prolactin Test?

1. Simple Online Booking
   You can book the test through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select 'Prolactin Test', choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a blood test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab.
2. Safe Home Sample Collection
   Our trained phlebotomists ensure the timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols.
3. Sample Tracking Updates
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your sample is processed at our NABL- & CAP-accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
5. Quick & Easy Reports
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.

Is Home Sample Collection for the Prolactin Test Available Near You?

Yes, home sample collection for prolactin testing is available at Metropolis Healthcare, eliminating the need for travel and waiting times at labs. With strict adherence to safety protocols and proper sample handling, our trained and certified phlebotomists maintain the same accuracy standards as lab visits. Our commitment to accessible testing means reliable results and quality care, wherever you are.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Prolactin Test Report?

Reports are usually available within 6 hours after the sample reaches the lab.

Where Can I See or Get the Prolactin Test Results?

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.

Interpreting Prolactin Test Results

What Your Prolactin Test Results May Indicate

The table below shows the reference ranges for prolactin levels and what different values might indicate for your health:

Conditions that May Affect Prolactin Test Accuracy

Several factors can influence your prolactin test results and should be discussed with your doctor:

• Certain medications, particularly antipsychotics, antidepressants, and blood pressure medicines, can raise prolactin levels.
• Physical or emotional stress can temporarily increase prolactin.
• Strenuous exercise within 24 hours before the test may affect results.
• High-dose biotin supplements (>5 mg/day) can interfere with certain immunoassay methods such as ECLIA; avoid for at least 8 hours before testing.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding naturally elevate prolactin levels.
• Prolactin levels show a diurnal pattern—highest during sleep and early morning—so blood collection should ideally be done 2–3 hours after waking.

How Is a Prolactin Test Done?

The prolactin test follows a standard blood collection procedure that is quick and straightforward:

• A healthcare professional cleans the area on your arm with an antiseptic.
• An elastic band is tied around your upper arm to make the veins more visible.
• A small needle is inserted into a vein, usually in your elbow area.
• A small amount of blood is collected into a special tube.
• The needle is removed, and a cotton ball or bandage is applied to prevent bleeding.
• Your blood sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis using advanced testing methods.

How Should You Prepare for a Prolactin Test?

Proper preparation helps ensure accurate test results:

• Schedule your test 2–3 hours after waking for optimal timing.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and stressful situations for 24 hours before the test.
• Rest for 30 minutes before your blood collection.
• Avoid high-dose biotin supplements (>5 mg/day) for at least 8 hours before the test.
• Inform your doctor about all medications you're taking, as some can affect prolactin levels.
• No special diet restrictions are needed for this test.

Diseases that a Prolactin Test Can Help Detect

The prolactin test can help identify several important health conditions:

• Prolactinoma (non-cancerous pituitary tumour)
• Hyperprolactinaemia (elevated prolactin levels)
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Pituitary gland disorders
• Chronic kidney disease (CKD), which can reduce prolactin clearance and raise levels
• Chronic liver disease may increase prolactin levels due to altered metabolism and clearance
• Hypothalamic disorders

Prolactin Tests/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare

The following table shows related tests and packages available at Metropolis Healthcare for comprehensive hormonal assessment: