Prolactin

About Test

The Prolactin test measures the level of prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. Prolactin is primarily responsible for stimulating breast milk production after childbirth, but it also plays a role in regulating the menstrual cycle and reproductive health.

This test is commonly used to diagnose and evaluate conditions related to abnormal prolactin levels, such as prolactinoma (a benign tumour of the pituitary gland), hyperprolactinaemia (excessive prolactin production), and hypoprolactinaemia (insufficient prolactin production). Elevated prolactin levels can lead to symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, or galactorrhoea (milk production not related to childbirth). Low prolactin levels are less common but can be associated with pituitary disorders or other hormonal imbalances.

Monitoring prolactin levels helps healthcare providers diagnose and manage disorders related to pituitary function and reproductive health, guiding appropriate treatment strategies to maintain hormonal balance and support overall well-being. Regular testing is important for adjusting treatments and managing conditions that affect prolactin production and its effects on the body.