Prolactin Blood Test

£45.00

Are you experiencing symptoms of raised prolactin, such as low libido, erectile dysfunction, or irregular periods? This test can help you determine whether raised prolactin levels could be contributing to your symptoms.

Results estimated in 2 working days

View 1 Biomarkers

How do you want to take your sample?

Please choose one option below
  • Collect your own finger-prick blood sample at home   Free

    We’ll send you everything you need to collect your blood sample from your finger at home.
  • Book a venous draw at a clinic   +£35.00

  • Book a venous draw at home with a nurse +£59.00

  • Self-arrange a professional sample collection Free

Prolactin Blood Test

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Is it for you?

Are you experiencing symptoms of raised prolactin, such as low libido, erectile dysfunction, or irregular periods? This test can help you determine whether raised prolactin levels could be contributing to your symptoms.

Biomarker table

Hormones

Prolactin

Learn more

Prolactin is a hormone which is produced in the pituitary gland and plays a role in reproductive health. Its primary purpose is to stimulate milk production after childbirth, and in pregnant and breastfeeding women prolactin levels can soar.
Special instructions

How to prepare for your test

Prepare for your prolactin test by following these instructions. Please take your sample about an hour after waking and before 10am. Do not take biotin supplements for two days before this test, discuss this with your doctor if it’s prescribed. Avoid nipple stimulation or any kind of sexual activity for 24 hours before taking your test as these can increase prolactin levels. Heavy meals and strenuous exercise can also impact prolactin results and are best avoided before taking the test.

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How it works

Your personalised, actionable health results are only a few clicks away. Order your test, take and post your sample, then view your results online with our doctors' comments.

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FAQs

What is prolactin?

Prolactin is a hormone produced by a small organ at the base of the brain called the anterior pituitary gland. It is best known for producing breast milk. Prolactin is usually found in low levels in both men and women. It rises during pregnancy and breastfeeding and returns to normal very quickly postpartum or after breastfeeding stops.

What does prolactin do?

As well as producing breast milk, prolactin has other wide-ranging functions, from influencing the reproductive system to regulating the immune system. Find out more about the role of prolactin.

What could a raised prolactin level mean?

Prolactin levels are naturally much higher during pregnancy and in lactating women.

there are many causes of a raised prolactin level. Most often, mild increases are seen with heavy exercise, alcohol consumption, and following intercourse. Other causes include certain medications (such as antidepressants or antipsychotics), an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), chronic liver or kidney disease, or tumours affecting the pituitary gland in the brain (prolactinomas). Find out other possible causes of raised prolactin.

Limitations of the test

Read before you order:

There are many harmless causes of a raised prolactin level, including activities before the sample is taken, certain medications, and the time of blood draw. Therefore, a high proportion of prolactin results are raised (over a quarter). Our doctors may advise you to repeat your sample or visit your GP for further assessment if it’s appropriate.

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