Prolactin Levels
A prolactin (PRL) test measures the level of prolactin in the blood. Prolactin is a hormone made by the pituitary gland, a small gland at the base of the brain. Prolactin causes the breasts to grow and make milk during pregnancy and after birth. Prolactin levels are normally high for pregnant women and new mothers.
A prolactin levels test is used to:
1. Diagnose a prolactinoma (a type of tumor of the pituitary gland)
2. Help find the cause of a woman's menstrual irregularities and/or infertility
3. Help find the cause of a man's low sex drive and/or erectile dysfunction
