Potassium in Maternal Milk (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of potassium, a mineral essential for nerve and muscle function, present in breast milk.
["Knowing your milk potassium levels may help assess electrolyte balance during breastfeeding."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60218-5
- Short code
- Potassium Mother Milk-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Potassium Mother Milk-sCnc
- Category
- electrolyte
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3.5
- Ref high
- 5
- Critical range
- 2.5 N/A – 6.5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84132
- SNOMED
- 110742001
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have concerns about electrolyte imbalances, breastfeeding challenges, or if you’re taking medications that affect potassium levels. It can also be part of monitoring for conditions like hyperparathyroidism or certain metabolic disorders that may influence milk composition.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. This test is typically collected as part of routine milk collection during feeding or through a milk sample provided by a healthcare professional. The sample is analyzed in a lab to measure potassium concentration.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to general reference ranges for potassium in breast milk, though individual variations can occur. Abnormal levels may indicate underlying health concerns that need further evaluation.
Common Reasons for Abnormal Results
Low potassium in milk could suggest dehydration, certain medications, or metabolic issues. High levels might be linked to overhydration, kidney problems, or other systemic conditions. Always discuss results with your provider.
Reference range
Adult: 3.5-5.0 mmol/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Potassium in breast milk is important for infant growth and development, particularly for nerve and muscle function. While rare, significant deviations from normal levels may warrant further medical assessment to address potential underlying causes, such as electrolyte disorders or medication effects.
Short name
Maternal Milk Potassium
Frequently asked questions
How often is this test done?
What does a low potassium level in my milk mean?
Can diet affect potassium levels in my milk?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy