Prolactin by Immunoassay (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the amount of prolactin, a hormone produced by your pituitary gland, in your blood. Prolactin helps regulate breast milk production and affects other bodily functions.
["Prolactin helps control milk production and may influence mood, sleep, and fertility."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12831-4
- Short code
- Prolactin sp10 p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prolactin sp10 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend a prolactin test if you have symptoms like unexplained breast milk production (galactorrhea), infertility, irregular menstrual periods, headaches, or signs of hormonal imbalances. It can also help diagnose conditions like pituitary tumors or thyroid disorders that may affect hormone levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or activities that could influence results. For example, some medications or stress can temporarily raise prolactin levels.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed using an immunoassay method to detect and measure prolactin levels accurately.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to standard reference ranges, but individual ranges can vary. High prolactin levels may suggest conditions like pituitary tumors or certain medications. Low levels might indicate other hormonal or medical 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.
Elevated prolactin levels can cause symptoms like infertility, menstrual irregularities, galactorrhea, or headaches. It may also mask other hormonal imbalances. Low prolactin levels are less common but can affect fertility and other reproductive functions. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Prolactin Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get prolactin test results?
Can stress or certain medications affect prolactin test results?
What are the most common reasons doctors order a prolactin test?
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