Prolactin Test

The Prolactin Test measures the amount of prolactin hormone present in the blood. Prolactin is produced by the anterior pituitary gland, also called the “master gland,” which controls many vital hormones in the body.

In females, prolactin is responsible for stimulating breast milk production after childbirth. Normally, prolactin levels remain low except during pregnancy and breastfeeding. When levels rise abnormally, it may cause irregular menstruation, infertility, and unexplained lactation.

This test is commonly advised to:

• Diagnose pituitary gland disorders

• Detect prolactinoma (pituitary tumor)

• Monitor tumor recurrence

• Investigate unwanted breast milk secretion

• Evaluate infertility and impotence

• Identify the cause of absent or irregular periods

High prolactin levels can interfere with ovulation, making pregnancy difficult. This test plays a crucial role in managing reproductive health and endocrine disorders, especially in women.

This is a serum blood hormone test used to measure prolactin (PRL) levels in the body.