Test

Prolactin Hormone PRL / Lactogenic / Luteotropin Hormone

₹600 ₹500

Save 17%

Also Known As

#1) PRL Test #2) Serum Prolactin Assay #3) Lactogenic Hormone Test #4) Luteotropic Hormone (LTH) #5) Pituitary Prolactin Screen #6) PRL Quantitative Assay #7) Hyperprolactinemia Screen #8) Reproductive Prolactin Check #9) Prolactinoma Marker #10) Milk Hormone Test #11) Basal Prolactin Level #12) PRL CLIA/ECLIA Test #13) Neuroendocrine Prolactin Audit #14) Pituitary Function Baseline #15) Standard Fertility Profile Component

Test Parameters Included

Serum Prolactin Level:
In non-pregnant/non-nursing individuals, prolactin levels are usually low.
High levels (Hyperprolactinemia) can interfere with the normal production of other hormones like estrogen and testosterone.
This can stop ovulation in women and decrease sperm production in men.
Very high levels may point toward a small, non-cancerous growth on the pituitary gland called a Prolactinoma.

Department

CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY

Methodology

Chemiluminescence: We utilize Chemiluminescence (CLIA). This high-precision, light-based detection method is the gold standard for hormone assays, providing the sensitivity needed to distinguish between minor stress-related elevations and clinical pathology.

Sample Required

SERUM (1ML)

Preparation

* Rest is Mandatory: You should be awake for at least 2 to 3 hours before the blood draw. Prolactin levels peak during sleep and remain high immediately upon waking. * The 30-Minute Rest Rule: Avoid vigorous exercise or sexual activity for 24 hours before the test. Upon arriving at the lab, it is best to sit and rest for 15–30 minutes before the draw to avoid "stress-induced" spikes. * No Fasting Required: You can eat normally, but avoid a high-protein meal immediately before the test. * Nipple Stimulation: Avoid any nipple stimulation for 24 hours before the test, as this can cause a temporary surge in prolactin. * Biotin Alert: Stop high-dose Biotin (Vitamin B7) for 72 hours prior to the test.

Schedule Report

12 Hours

Emergency Report

Yes

Frequently Asked Questions

Why must I be awake for 3 hours before the test?

Prolactin levels are naturally at their highest during deep sleep. If we test you right after you wake up, we might get a "False High" that doesn't reflect your true daytime baseline.

Why does the report take 6 hours?

Our automated systems prioritize accuracy. The 6-hour TAT includes sample preparation, automated analysis, and a quality check by our pathologist.

Can my medication cause high prolactin?

Yes! Many drugs, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and some acid-reflux medications, can raise prolactin levels.

Does high prolactin cause infertility?

Yes. It can prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation) and can reduce sperm count in men.

What is "Macroprolactin"?

Sometimes prolactin sticks together in large clumps. The lab machine counts them, but they aren't active in the body. This is a common cause of "symptomless" high prolactin.

Can stress raise my result?

Yes. Even the stress of the needle stick can cause a small rise. This is why we recommend resting at the lab before the draw.

Is it normal to have nipple discharge if I'm not pregnant?

No. This is called Galactorrhea and is a primary reason to get your prolactin checked.

Can I drink water before the test?

Yes, plain water is fine.

Does hypothyroidism affect prolactin?

Yes. When thyroid levels are low, the brain produces more TRH, which stimulates both TSH and Prolactin.

What is a Prolactinoma?

It is a non-cancerous (benign) tumor on the pituitary gland. It is highly treatable, usually with medication rather than surgery.

Can men have high prolactin?

Yes. In men, it often presents as a lack of interest in sex or difficulty with erections.

Does Biotin affect this test?

Yes. Biotin can interfere with the lab's light-based technology. Always stop it 3 days before any hormone test.

Why did my doctor order this for my headache?

If a pituitary tumor grows large enough, it can press on the optic nerves, causing headaches and vision changes.

Do I need to fast?

No, fasting is not required for prolactin.

Is the test confidential?

Absolutely. At Dr. Patho, all hormonal and reproductive data is handled with strict privacy.

Test Description

Prolactin Hormone PRL / Lactogenic / Luteotropin Hormone Examination Test Overview The Prolactin (PRL) test measures the level of a protein hormone p...

Test Code

P15

Book This Test

Share this test

High-end laboratory & medical equipment.
Outstanding doctor team.
Personalized care & high-quality service.
Tailormade health screening packages.

T&C