Prolactin is a hormone made by the pituitary gland. It’s best known for milk production, but it affects sex hormones in both women and men.
High prolactin can lower testosterone and libido and cause erectile dysfunction in men, so it’s part of the men’s expanded baseline panel. Finding it matters because the cause needs its own treatment.
At Serene Med Spa in Hudson, Ohio, every hormone and wellness plan starts with Labcorp lab work reviewed by a board-certified physician.
Common causes include certain medications, an underactive thyroid, kidney disease and prolactinoma, a benign pituitary tumor. Symptoms can include low libido, erectile dysfunction, breast changes and, in women, irregular periods.
Low prolactin is uncommon and usually not a concern on its own.
Normal ranges vary by lab, age and sex. Your physician reads every result together with your symptoms, history and other tests.
Prolactin can rise with stress, exercise or nipple stimulation, so a calm, rested morning draw is best. If you take biotin (vitamin B7) or a hair, skin and nail supplement, tell us first. The FDA warns that high-dose biotin can interfere with some lab tests, including hormone and thyroid tests.
High prolactin can suppress testosterone, so it needs to be ruled out before treating.
Medications, an underactive thyroid, kidney disease and benign pituitary tumors are common causes.
Your physician may repeat the test and arrange further evaluation to find the cause.
Book a hormone and wellness consultation at Serene Med Spa in Hudson, OH. We’ll review your symptoms, order the right panel and walk you through every result.
Book a ConsultationSources: MedlinePlus: Prolactin Levels. This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Tests are ordered only after a consultation with a licensed provider.
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