What is the usage of Prolactin Test ?

The most common uses for a prolactin levels test are:

To diagnose a prolactinoma (a type of tumour of the pituitary gland)

To assist in determining the source of a woman's infertility and menstrual abnormalities.

To assist in determining the reason for a man's lack of sexual desire and erectile dysfunction.

To determine Hirsutism.

Why should I do the Prolactin Test ?

You may need a prolactin levels test if you are having symptoms that could be caused by higher-than-normal prolactin levels. The symptoms are different for women and men.

In women, symptoms may include:

Changes in menstruation (irregular periods or absence of periods)

Production of breast milk when not pregnant or breastfeeding.

Nipple discharge.

Infertility.

In men, symptoms may include:

Nipple discharge.

Erectile dysfunction/impotence.

Enlarged breasts (gynecomastia).

Decreased facial and body hair.

How is the CBC Test Done ?

The Prolactin test is a simple blood test with no need for fasting before the test. The blood sample can be taken by the phlebotomist at a pathology lab or at home. At NABL Certified NABL Maurya Labs the test is done on a machine called Fully Automatic Hormonal Assay which is the first and only one in entire Seemanchal region. The sample collection takes less than a minute.

Does Prolactin Levels Lead to Weight Gain ?

Prolactin levels that are too high might cause weight gain and cognitive problems. Prolactin is associated with growth and increased body weight, regardless of a substantial influence on hypothalamic or pituitary function. Weight reduction was observed in 70% of prolactinomas patients and 90% of male patients who had their prolactin levels adjusted in this study.