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 Rangareddy 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).
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