Prolactin (PRL): What It Detects, Normal Range

Overview

The Prolactin (PRL), Serum test measures the level of prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. Prolactin plays an important role in stimulating breast milk production after childbirth and also influences reproductive health, menstrual cycles, fertility, and sexual function in both women and men. Abnormal prolactin levels can affect ovulation, menstruation, fertility, and testosterone production. This test is commonly recommended to investigate infertility, irregular or absent menstrual periods, unexplained breast milk production (galactorrhea), erectile dysfunction, and suspected pituitary gland disorders.

What It Measures

Why Take This Test?

• To investigate infertility in men and women. To evaluate irregular or absent menstrual periods. To diagnose unexplained breast milk production (galactorrhea). To assess pituitary gland function. To investigate erectile dysfunction or low testosterone in men. To monitor prolactin-related disorders and treatment response.

How to Prepare

• 1Fasting is usually not required unless advised by your healthcare provider. Avoid strenuous exercise
• 2emotional stress
• 3and breast stimulation for 24 hours before the test
• 4as these can temporarily increase prolactin levels. Ideally
• 5the blood sample should be collected 2–3 hours after waking up. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking
• 6especially hormonal medicines
• 7antidepressants
• 8antipsychotics
• 9or anti-nausea medications.

Description

Measures prolactin hormone levels in the blood to assess reproductive health, fertility, menstrual disorders, and pituitary gland function.