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* This is not a home test kit. You will need to visit a local lab for testing.
Fasting Required: No
Turnaround Time: 2-10 business days
Specimen Type: Blood
Prolactin Test, PRL, PRL Test
Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, as well as the central nervous system, the uterus, mammary glands, and the immune system. It plays an essential role in milk production and lactation.
Prolactin testing can be used to:
A test for prolactin measures the levels of this hormone in your blood.
This is often used as a fertility test for men and women. A prolactin lab test also may be recommended for the following symptoms:
Additionally, post-menopausal women who experience fatigue, unexplained weight gain, constipation, or muscle pain may need to be tested for prolactin. These are symptoms of hypothyroidism, which can be caused by high prolactin levels.
Finally, a physician may recommend prolactin testing if you have symptoms that could be associated with prolactinomas.
You don’t have to do anything special to prepare for the blood sample collection.
Normal prolactin levels are less than 20 ng/mL for men and less than 25 ng/mL for women. Pregnancy naturally elevates prolactin levels, typically between 80 to 400 ng/mL. Aside from pregnancy, elevated prolactin levels could indicate a variety of issues, including prolactinomas or problems with the pituitary or thyroid glands, so it’s important to follow up with a physician for the next steps.
You may also undergo further hormone testing. And if you’re a woman with high prolactin levels, you may opt to take a breast cancer blood test, as some studies indicate you may have a slightly higher risk for the disease.
You can get a prolactin test for your peace of mind in just a few easy steps:
Our wide-ranging collection of men’s health tests and women’s health tests put your health in your hands. These tests give you the information you need to make informed decisions about your healthcare. Shop our tests online today.
Provider | LabCorp, Quest |
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Results can be provided in as little as 24-48 hrs. For more complex tests, please contact us for turn around times.