Prolactin Test
The Prolactin Test from GetTested measures the level of prolactin in blood, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in reproductive health, lactation, and hormonal balance. Abnormal prolactin levels may indicate pituitary disorders, thyroid imbalances, or reproductive health conditions.
What is prolactin?
Prolactin is a hormone primarily responsible for stimulating breast development and milk production after childbirth. In both women and men, prolactin also influences reproductive health, sexual function, and overall hormonal balance. Elevated levels, known as hyperprolactinemia, can interfere with ovulation, menstrual cycles, and fertility, while low levels may also affect reproductive function.
Why measure prolactin?
Testing prolactin levels provides important insights into:
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
- Infertility in both women and men
- Symptoms such as unexpected breast milk production (galactorrhea)
- Low libido or erectile dysfunction in men
- Possible pituitary or thyroid disorders
- Monitoring treatment for conditions related to prolactin imbalance
When is testing relevant?
The Prolactin Test may be recommended if you are experiencing irregular periods, unexplained infertility, galactorrhea, reduced sexual function, or persistent headaches and vision problems that could suggest pituitary issues. It may also be useful in evaluating hormone-related symptoms in men.
Key benefits of the Prolactin test
- Measures an essential hormone for reproductive and hormonal health
- Provides insights into fertility issues in both women and men
- Can help detect pituitary or thyroid disorders
- Useful for monitoring treatment and hormone regulation
How the test works
The Prolactin Test is performed using a simple dried blood spot (DBS) sample collected at home with a finger prick. The sample is sent to our certified laboratory for analysis, and results are delivered digitally, giving you secure and convenient access to your hormone health insights.