Prolactin Test In Jabalpur - Price & Details

If your Jabalpur healthcare provider orders a prolactin test, conveniently book it through PharmEasy, with home sample collection, flexible scheduling, and test progress tracking via the app.

Elevated prolactin levels often indicate a pituitary gland tumour called a prolactinoma, leading to excess prolactin production. This can result in unusual breast milk production in both men and non-pregnant or non-breastfeeding women. In women, elevated prolactin levels can cause menstrual irregularities and infertility, while in men, it may lead to reduced sex drive and erectile dysfunction.

The primary purposes of a prolactin levels test are to:

• Diagnose a prolactinoma, a pituitary gland tumour.
• Investigate the causes of menstrual irregularities and infertility in women.
• Examine factors contributing to reduced sex drive and erectile dysfunction in men.

Prolactin is primarily produced by the pituitary gland, a small pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain, just below the hypothalamus. This gland is a vital component of the endocrine system and plays a crucial role in producing various hormones, including prolactin. Additionally, prolactin can also be produced by other body tissues, such as the central nervous system, immune system, uterus, and mammary glands, with factors like nipple stimulation, exercise, and stress influencing prolactin production in these tissues.

Some reasons why your doctor might prescribe a prolactin level test? This test becomes relevant when certain symptoms of a prolactinoma are present, and these symptoms can vary based on your gender and menopausal status.

Common symptoms that can apply to both men and women include:

• Unexpected production of breast milk when not pregnant or breastfeeding
• Nipple discharge
• Headaches
• Vision changes

For women who haven't undergone menopause, additional symptoms may include:

• Irregular menstrual periods
• Premature menopause (menstrual periods stopping before age 40)
• Infertility
• Breast tenderness

For women who have already experienced menopause, symptoms may not appear until the condition worsens. Excess prolactin post-menopause can often lead to hypothyroidism, characterized by:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Muscle pain
• Constipation
• Intolerance to cold temperatures

For accurate results, take the test 3-4 hours after waking up when prolactin levels are highest in the morning. Inform your doctor about any medications you're on, as some can influence prolactin levels.

During the Prolactin Test

Our skilled phlebotomists will visit your home at the appointed time for the prolactin test. They use a vein finder and sterile syringes for blood collection. A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from your arm vein using a small needle, with minimal discomfort, and the procedure typically lasts less than five minutes.