Serum Prolactin near me in Bangalore

Also known as PRL test, Prolactin blood test

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Overnight fasting is preferred but not mandatory.
Kindly follow your doctor's instructions, if any, on how to prepare for your test.

Understanding Serum Prolactin in Bangalore

What is Serum Prolactin in Bangalore?

The Serum Prolactin test measures the level of prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, in the blood and is available at an affordable price in Bangalore with Tata 1mg labs. Prolactin plays a key role in breast growth and milk production during pregnancy and after childbirth. Therefore, its levels are usually high in pregnant women and new mothers.

The Serum Prolactin test helps identify the causes of abnormal breast discharge, menstrual irregularities, infertility, erection problems, and testicular failure. Higher-than-normal levels in non-pregnant women and men indicate prolactinoma (tumor of the pituitary gland), liver disease, or hypothyroidism. In contrast, lower-than-normal levels may indicate hypopituitarism. Some birth control pills, high blood pressure drugs, or antidepressants can affect the test results.

Usually, overnight fasting is preferred, however, not mandatory for this test. It is important to note that prolactin levels can vary throughout the day as prolactin is secreted episodically and may be influenced by factors such as stress (emotional or venepuncture stress), exercise, pregnancy, breast feeding, sexual contact and sleep. Your doctor may advise a fasting blood sample at least 2–3 hours after waking up. In case of mild elevations, not correlating with clinical picture, a pooled prolactin test may be done on a later date (3 blood samples taken at 15–20 min intervals to minimise the effect of Prolactin pulsatility).

What does Serum Prolactin measure?

The Serum Prolactin test measures the levels of prolactin hormone in a person’s body. During pregnancy, prolactin, estrogen, and progesterone hormones stimulate breast milk development. Following childbirth, prolactin helps initiate and maintain the breast milk supply. If a woman does not breastfeed, her prolactin concentration will soon drop back to pre-pregnancy levels.

Besides pregnancy, the most common cause of elevated prolactin concentration is prolactinoma, a prolactin-producing tumor of the pituitary gland. Prolactinomas are the most common type of pituitary tumor and are usually benign (non-cancerous). They develop more frequently in women but are also found in men.

If the pituitary gland and/or the tumor enlarge significantly, it can put pressure on the optic nerve, causing headaches and visual disturbances, and can interfere with the other hormones that the pituitary gland produces.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Serum Prolactin in Bangalore

Frequently Asked Questions about Serum Prolactin in Bangalore

Q. What is the purpose of the Serum Prolactin test?

The Serum Prolactin test is done to measure the quantity of prolactin hormone (a hormone released by the pituitary gland that is responsible for breast enlargement and milk production in lactating females) and detect prolactinoma (a tumor of the pituitary gland).

Q. Is there any risk associated with the Serum Prolactin test?

There is usually no risk associated with this test. However, some people may feel a slight sting when a needle is pricked to collect a blood sample and may experience some bleeding that is normal and usually not bothersome. Some people may rarely experience slight swelling or bruising at the site of the needle prick. Applying ice 3-4 times daily for about a week may help reduce swelling and bruising. If it does not get better, consult your doctor.

Q. What is the best time for sample collection for the Serum Prolactin test?

The Serum Prolactin test should be performed in the morning, nearly 2-3 hours after waking up, as the prolactin levels are usually high in the evening due to circadian rhythm.

Q. Do I need additional tests along with the Serum Prolactin?

Your doctor may advise additional tests depending on your situation. If your prolactin levels are high, an imaging test called a magnetic resonance imaging test (MRI) may be needed to rule out a prolactinoma. Also, in women, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) tests may be performed to help evaluate ovulation and fertility issues. Other tests such as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and electrolytes may also be ordered to check thyroid and kidney functions. An eye examination may also be performed to evaluate visual disturbances.

Q. Can I schedule an online booking for the Serum Prolactin test in Bangalore near me?

Yes. In Bangalore, you can schedule the Serum Prolactin test near you with Tata 1mg Labs. The test is easy to book, cost-effective, and available with a comprehensive report.

Q. Is the Serum Prolactin test eligible for home sample collection in Bangalore?

Yes, the Serum Prolactin test is eligible for home sample collection in Bangalore. With Tata 1mg Labs, you can schedule a test at your convenience, and select a date and time for sample collection that fits your schedule.

Q. What is the procedure to book the Serum Prolactin test with Tata 1mg Labs in Bangalore?

The process to book the Serum Prolactin test with Tata 1mg Labs in Bangalore is quite straightforward. To schedule a test online, follow these steps: 1). Go to the Lab Tests section on the Tata 1mg website. 2). Add your preferred test to the shopping cart. 3). Choose a time and day that works for you as long as you also take the essential prerequisites into account. 4). A confirmation notification will be sent to you with all the details once the booking is complete.

Q. How much does the Serum Prolactin test cost in Bangalore?

We at Tata 1mg understand the importance of affordable healthcare and, therefore, provide lab tests at a pocket-friendly budget. The Serum Prolactin test in Bangalore is available at Rs. 589.

Q. What is the estimated turnaround time for the results of the Serum Prolactin test in Bangalore?

Tata 1mg Labs understands the importance of timely results and strives to deliver them quickly. On average, we deliver the results of the Serum Prolactin test in Bangalore in 15 hours.

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