There are many important hormones in the body, and one of them is prolactin, known as the milk hormone. Prolactin is a hormone that primarily stimulates milk production, but it can also have an effect on menstrual cycle, fertility, and hormone balance.
So, how is the prolactin test done, what should be considered before the test, and how are high prolactin levels managed? In this article, we will cover all the curiosities about prolactin measurement in detail.
What is Prolactin (Milk Hormone) and Why is It Measured?
Prolactin is a hormone secreted from the pituitary gland of the brain and is responsible for milk production, especially in women. However, it must be present at a certain level not only in breastfeeding women but also in men before pregnancy.
Prolactin measurement is used to evaluate the following conditions:
✔ Irregular menstrual cycle and ovulation problems
✔ Infertility evaluation
✔ Non-breastfeeding milk discharge from the nipple (galactorrhea)
✔ Headaches and vision problems (pituitary gland tumors suspected)
✔ Lack of sexual desire and hormonal irregularities
✔ Low testosterone and breast enlargement in men (gynecomastia)
Prolactin levels can be affected by many factors, so the test It must be done at the right time and under appropriate conditions. A single measurement is not enough, if it is high, it is recommended to repeat it.
How to Prepare for Prolactin Measurement?
The preparation process for the prolactin test is very important. Testing under the wrong conditions may produce temporarily high or low results.
Things to Consider Before Prolactin Test:
The test should be done on an empty stomach
- It is recommended to do the test in the morning on an empty stomach (between 08:00 – 09:00).
- Eating and drinking can temporarily raise prolactin levels.
Nipples should not be touched 3 days before the test.
- Nipple stimulation can increase prolactin levels.
- Therefore, no contact should be made with the breast area for the last three days (massage, contact during bathing, sexual intercourse, etc. should be avoided).
Sexual Intercourse Should Be Avoided
- Prolactin levels may rise temporarily during sexual intercourse.
- It is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse for at least 24 hours before the test.
Pre-Test Stress and Sleeplessness Should Be Avoided
- Stress and inadequate sleep can increase prolactin levels.
- The day before the test, you should get regular sleep and be in a comfortable environment.
Intense Exercise Should Not Be Done
- Excessive physical activity can temporarily increase the hormone prolactin.
- It is recommended not to do heavy sports the day before the test.
Baths and Hot Showers Should Be Avoided
- Taking a hot shower can affect prolactin levels.
- It is recommended to take a bath with warm or cold water before the test.
How to Test Prolactin?
- A blood sample taken from your arm in the morning, on an empty stomach, is sent to the laboratory.
- Results are usually available within a few hours or 1-2 days.
Prolactin Test Results and Normal Values
Prolactin levels can vary from person to person, but in general, reference ranges are as follows:
Person Group | Prolactin Normal Value (ng/mL) |
Women | 4 – 23 ng/mL |
Pregnant Women | 34 – 386 ng/mL |
Men | 3 – 15 ng/mL |
- Prolactin levels above 25 ng/mL are considered high.
- Prolactin levels above 100 ng/mL may be associated with pituitary tumors.
However, a single measurement does not always give the correct result.
What Should Be Done If Prolactin Is High?
If your prolactin level is high, you should not panic, as some conditions may temporarily affect the test results.
One Measurement Is Not Enough!
- Never rely on a single measurement.
- The test must be repeated and the test conditions specified above must be fully complied with.
What Causes High Prolactin?
1. Temporary Causes:
Stress
Insomnia
Nipple stimulation
Sexual intercourse
Hot bath or shower
2. Medical Causes:
Tumor in the pituitary gland (Prolactinoma)
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Thyroid hormone disorders
Kidney failure
Liver diseases
Some medications used (antidepressants, birth control pills, blood pressure medications)
Does High Prolactin Require Treatment?
- If prolactin levels are high in several measurements, drug therapy may be started.
- For very high prolactin levels (above 100 ng/mL), a brain MRI may be performed to see if there is a tumor in the pituitary gland.
Treatment Methods:
- In mild cases, prolactin levels can be lowered with medication. If a pituitary tumor is present, surgery or radiotherapy may be required, depending on its size.
- If the underlying cause is a disease such as thyroid or PCOS, this disease should be treated first.
Conclusion and Recommendations
- Appropriate preparation should be made before the prolactin test to increase the accuracy of the test.
- If prolactin is high, there should be no panic; the test should be repeated at least 2-3 times.
- If necessary, the pituitary gland should be examined with a brain MRI.
- A detailed evaluation should be made with your doctor before starting treatment.
If your prolactin level is high, it would be best to consult an endocrinologist or gynecologist and have your hormones analyzed in more detail.