Prolactin Test. Prices, Reviews, Ratings
Prolactin, lactogen, or luteotropic hormone is primarily produced by the pituitary gland, breasts during reproductive age, and placenta during pregnancy. The normal prolactin level in men ranges from 53 to 360 mU/L, and in women from 40 to 530 (during reproductive age).
Prolactin, lactogen, or luteotropic hormone is primarily produced by the pituitary gland, breasts during reproductive age, and placenta during pregnancy. The normal prolactin level in men ranges from 53 to 360 mU/L, and in women from 40 to 530 (during reproductive age).
General Information
The main functions of lactogenic hormone in adolescence are breast growth and normal development, while after puberty, during pregnancy, and post-delivery, it aids in maturing colostrum into milk. Prolactin inhibits ovulation by suppressing FSH secretion. It reduces levels of female and male hormones (estrogen and testosterone).
Elevated prolactin (hyperprolactinemia) in the body can be triggered by:
- Pathological type – diseases, stress.
- Physiological type – daily activities (sleep, sexual activity, physical exertion).
- Idiopathic type – increased pituitary cell activity with unchanged cell count.
Causes of elevated hormone levels may include certain medications and past abortions.
Slight but persistent prolactin elevation in women can lead to infertility, frigidity, breast reduction, cyst or adenoma formation, and in some cases, cancer. High levels cause galactorrhea, and extremely high levels lead to psychiatric disorders. Low levels are observed in pituitary apoplexy (Sheehan’s syndrome) or post-term pregnancy.
Indications for Prolactin Testing
The test may be ordered by a gynecologist, reproductive specialist, endocrinologist, oncologist, or psychologist. The main indications are pronounced changes in the endocrine, reproductive, and nervous systems. Key symptoms:
- Scanty or absent menstruation;
- Infertility;
- Frequent headaches;
- Vision impairment;
- Milk secretion from breasts in non-lactating, non-pregnant women;
- Male breast enlargement;
- Genital dysfunction (lack of erection, weak or short-lived erection);
- Atrophic changes in external genitalia.
The test is prescribed for suspected pituitary and hypothalamic dysfunction, secondary amenorrhea, or galactorrhea.
How the Prolactin Test Is Performed
A specialist draws venous blood in the morning (between 10 and 11 a.m.). It’s crucial that more than 3 hours have passed since waking, as prolactin may be elevated otherwise. The patient places their arm on a flat surface and relaxes it. After applying a tourniquet, the patient clenches their fist for 20-30 seconds to enhance blood flow. The puncture site is sealed with a bandage. Women should undergo testing on days 6-8 of their menstrual cycle.
For 24 hours before the procedure, avoid sexual activity, saunas, or baths (heat exposure). Do not smoke for an hour prior.
Processing Time for Prolactin Test
Results are typically issued the next day. In urgent cases, within 4 hours.
Prices and Clinics
Find out which clinics offer this service on the medical portal.
Схожі новини:
