Prolactin
The prolactin blood test measures a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It helps assess fertility, menstrual health, and pituitary function.
Turnaround time
1-2 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Prolactin
What is the Prolactin test?
The Prolactin blood test measures prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in breast development and milk production. Prolactin also influences reproductive hormones and menstrual cycle regulation.
Outside pregnancy and breastfeeding, prolactin levels are usually low. Elevated or reduced levels can disrupt ovulation, testosterone production, and overall hormonal balance.
This test is commonly used as part of fertility assessment, menstrual irregularity investigation, and pituitary gland evaluation.
Why do I need a test for Prolactin?
Abnormal prolactin levels can interfere with reproductive hormones and cause a wide range of symptoms in both women and men. Testing helps identify whether prolactin imbalance is contributing to fertility issues or hormonal symptoms.
It is particularly useful when investigating irregular periods, infertility, sexual dysfunction, or symptoms suggesting pituitary involvement.
You may benefit from this test if you experience:
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Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
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Difficulty conceiving
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Milk discharge from breasts (not pregnant or breastfeeding)
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Low libido or sexual dysfunction
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Erectile dysfunction in men
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Headaches or visual disturbances
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Suspected pituitary disorders
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Hormonal imbalance symptoms
Benefits of the Prolactin test
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Assesses pituitary gland function
Helps evaluate hormone production from the pituitary. -
Supports fertility investigation
High prolactin can suppress ovulation and sperm production. -
Investigates menstrual irregularities
Identifies hormonal causes of cycle disruption. -
Evaluates unexplained breast discharge
Helps assess galactorrhoea. -
Relevant for male hormonal health
Elevated prolactin can lower testosterone levels. -
Supports diagnosis of pituitary disorders
Useful in suspected prolactin-secreting adenomas. -
Guides further endocrine testing
Abnormal results may prompt additional hormone assessment. -
Non-invasive hormone assessment
Requires only a blood sample.
Step-by-step – how we offer Prolactin testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
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Choose your nearest UK clinic
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Attend your appointment
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Blood sample collected by a qualified clinician or phlebotomist
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Sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis
At-home or hotel testing (+£60)
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A qualified phlebotomist visits your home or hotel
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Blood sample collected in a comfortable, familiar setting
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No clinic visit or travel required
Both services are available UK-wide.
Your Prolactin results explained
Low prolactin levels
Low prolactin levels are uncommon and usually not clinically significant. In rare cases, they may indicate reduced pituitary function.
Low levels are generally not associated with symptoms unless part of broader pituitary dysfunction.
UK reference interpretation:
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Low: Below laboratory reference range
Normal prolactin levels
Normal prolactin levels indicate balanced pituitary hormone production. This supports normal reproductive hormone regulation.
Results should be interpreted alongside symptoms and other hormone levels.
UK reference interpretation:
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Normal: Within laboratory reference range
High prolactin levels (hyperprolactinaemia)
Elevated prolactin levels can suppress ovulation, reduce testosterone, and cause fertility or sexual dysfunction. Causes include stress, certain medications, thyroid dysfunction, or pituitary adenomas.
Persistently high levels often require further endocrine evaluation.
UK reference interpretation:
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High: Above laboratory reference range
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.