Hormones
Prolactin
Hormones
Pituitary hormone. Elevated levels can affect fertility and menstrual cycle.
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Most people associate prolactin with breastfeeding, and fair enough — that's its headline act. But this pituitary hormone also plays a behind-the-scenes role in fertility, menstrual regulation, fat metabolism, and sexual satisfaction in both women and men. When prolactin is elevated outside of pregnancy and breastfeeding, it can quietly disrupt the whole hormonal orchestra.
Testing prolactin makes sense when there's unexplained breast milk production, abnormal nipple discharge, periods that have gone AWOL, fertility struggles, or — in men — decreased libido or erectile dysfunction. It's also used for monitoring prolactin-secreting tumours (prolactinomas) and as follow-up when testosterone is low.
What a high value can mean
High prolactin is perfectly normal during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Otherwise, elevated levels may link to hypothyroidism, intense exercise, birth control pills, pituitary tumours (prolactinomas), PCOS, eating disorders, stress, and various medications including estrogen, antidepressants, and antipsychotics.
What a low value can mean
Prolactin is normally low in men and non-pregnant women. If it dips below the reference range, it's not usually a problem — but mention it to your doctor.
Avoid alcohol the day before. Take the test before 10 am. Arrive early and sit quietly for 15 minutes — stress can temporarily spike prolactin. Bring valid ID. If you take a supplement containing biotin (often sold for hair and nails), pause it for two days before the test, as high doses can distort the result.
Order your test
Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.
Give your sample
Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.
The lab analyses it
Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.
Get your results
Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.
Yes, especially in men. Both physical and emotional stress can bump up prolactin temporarily. That 15-minute rest before the blood draw really matters here.
A prolactinoma is a benign pituitary tumour that overproduces prolactin. It can cause milk production, cycle changes, or vision issues. The good news: it's usually very treatable with medication.
Many can — including antipsychotics, antidepressants, estrogen, and some blood pressure drugs. Always mention your medications when reviewing results.