Serum Prolactin Level (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, in your blood. Prolactin helps regulate breast milk production and affects other bodily functions.
["Prolactin levels can help diagnose conditions related to hormone imbalances or reproductive health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 25741-0
- Short code
- Prolactin 50M p 200 ug TRH IV SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prolactin 50M p 200 ug TRH IV 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unusual breast milk production, menstrual irregularities, infertility, or signs of a pituitary tumor. It could also be part of an evaluation for conditions like hyperprolactinemia or hypoprolactinemia.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications that could affect results. If you’re breastfeeding, let your provider know as it may influence testing timing.
What Happens During the Test
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The process is quick and usually painless. You may feel a slight pinch, but most people tolerate it well.
What the Results Mean
Results help determine if your prolactin levels are within normal ranges or if they’re too high or too low. Elevated levels may suggest conditions like pituitary tumors or certain medications. Low levels might indicate rare hormonal issues.
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.
Prolactin levels are critical for diagnosing hormonal imbalances that can affect fertility, menstrual cycles, lactation, and other reproductive health concerns. High prolactin can interfere with ovulation and may require treatment to restore normal hormone function.
Short name
Prolactin
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or lifestyle affect prolactin levels?
What if my results are outside the normal range?
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