Prolactin, Serum
This test measures the amount of prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, in your blood. It helps evaluate conditions related to hormone imbalances or potential pituitary disorders.
["Prolactin levels can indicate issues with hormone production or function in your body."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 41608-1
- Short code
- Prolactin 30M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prolactin 30M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 2
- Ref high
- 18
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84146
- 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 a prolactin test to check for problems like hyperprolactinemia (too much prolactin), which can affect fertility, menstrual cycles, or cause symptoms like breast tenderness or missed periods. It may also be used to diagnose pituitary tumors, thyroid disorders, or other hormonal imbalances.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves a blood draw, but this depends on your provider’s instructions. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s a quick and painless procedure. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are compared to standard reference ranges, but your specific values will be reviewed by your provider. High or low prolactin levels may signal underlying health concerns that need further evaluation.
Reference range
Adult males: 2-18 ng/mL; Females: 2-29 ng/mLN/A
For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated prolactin levels can cause infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, or galactorrhea (milk production outside of pregnancy). Low levels may suggest pituitary dysfunction or other hormonal disorders. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Prolactin Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What are common symptoms linked to abnormal prolactin levels?
Can lifestyle changes affect prolactin levels?
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