Max Lab
Sep 13, 2022
Prolactin, also known as the lactogenic hormone, is produced by the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain. Prolactin contributes to several bodily functions and is also responsible for lactation, breast tissue development, and milk production. The production and release of prolactin from the pituitary gland is controlled by the brain chemical, dopamine, and the oestrogen hormone. Based on factors like exercise, stress, or nipple stimulation, prolactin can also be produced by the mammary glands, immune system, and central nervous system.
At normal levels, Prolactin plays a role in a number of bodily functions, but its main functions include:
Higher or lower levels of prolactin can lead to several health issues like low testosterone levels, reduced libido, and erectile dysfunction in men and in women, it can lead to irregular menses, milky discharge from the nipples even if one is not pregnant or breastfeeding, low libido, vaginal dryness, etc. In severe cases, higher than normal levels of prolactin may even lead to infertility. A prolactin test can be performed to measure the level of this hormone in a blood sample. The prolactin levels test may be performed by itself but is generally a part of fertility panel tests like the FSH-LH-Prolactin TSH test or the FSH-LH-Prolactin test, meaning that it is performed along with a number of other tests to help doctors evaluate how well the reproductive organs of an individual are functioning.
The purpose of the prolactin test may vary from case to case. Some of the reasons why a doctor may prescribe a prolactin levels test include:
Excess prolactin in the blood can interfere with the function of the testicles, reducing the production of sperm and testosterone, meaning that a prolactin test may also be prescribed as a follow-up test for low testosterone levels.
A prolactin test is one for the evaluation of one’s reproductive health or to diagnose and monitor certain medical conditions. In general, having low or high prolactin levels in the blood may not always indicate something serious.
The prolactin test showing an individual having lower than normal levels of the hormone indicates a condition called hypopractinaemia, which is generally not much cause for concern. However, depending on the symptoms one is showing, follow-up tests may be ordered to diagnose the underlying condition.
Low levels of prolactin can lead to ovary dysfunction and irregular or absent menses in non-pregnant women; anxiety and an increased risk of developing diabetes in pregnant women or new mothers; metabolic syndrome, reduced sex drive, and erectile dysfunction in men.
High levels of prolactin or hyperprolactinaemia may be a normal occurrence, or they may have been caused by conditions that require medical attention.
A prolactin levels test may also be prescribed if an individual is displaying symptoms related to high or low levels of the hormone.
The normal range of a prolactin test will be different for men, pregnant women, non-pregnant women, and children. Apart from this, they also vary based on age, health history, and the diagnostics lab where the test is performed. However, in general, normal levels for a prolactin test can be defined as:
The results can be affected by the use of certain medications, diseases of the kidney or liver, excessive stress, improper sleep schedule, alcohol consumption within the last 24 hours of taking the test, or heavy exercise just before the test. Even without the presence of such factors, abnormal prolactin results may not always indicate a serious medical issue and may require some follow-up testing for a proper diagnosis.
A prolactin blood test is a simple procedure that measures the levels of prolactin in your bloodstream. Prolactin, as mentioned earlier, is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It serves multiple purposes, such as regulating milk production in breastfeeding women and influencing fertility and reproductive functions in both males and females.
One possible cause for high levels is a benign tumor called a pituitary adenoma. This tumor can disrupt normal hormone production and lead to an overproduction of prolactin. On the other hand, low levels of prolactin are less common but can occur due to various factors. These include damage to the pituitary gland from surgery or radiation therapy.
There are a few precautions you should keep in mind.
Prolactin levels are not affected by food intake, so there is usually no need to fast prior to the test. However, it's always best to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding any specific preparation requirements for the test.
The answer is yes, a prolactin blood test can be performed during menstruation. However, it's important to note that hormone levels can fluctuate during different phases of the menstrual cycle, including the period itself. This means that the results may not accurately reflect your baseline prolactin levels.
One important factor is the timing of the test. Prolactin levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day, with higher levels in the morning and lower levels in the afternoon and evening. It is recommended to have your blood drawn in the morning for accurate results.
Before undergoing any blood test, it is essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. In most cases, drinking plain water is generally allowed prior to a prolactin test. However, it is always best to confirm with your doctor or laboratory.
The time it takes to receive the results of a prolactin blood test can vary depending on various factors. In general, most laboratories are able to provide the results within a few days. However, it's important to keep in mind that this is an estimate and actual turnaround times may be shorter or longer.
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Comments
Great information, Thanks for sharing it !!