Prolactin

Lactogenic Hormone

Why It Is Done

A test for prolactin is done:

• To find the cause of abnormal nipple discharge, or if a woman is not having periods (amenorrhea) or if a woman is having a hard time becoming pregnant (infertile).
• In a man when a pituitary gland problem is suspected. Also, a prolactin test may be done to check levels if a man lacks sexual desire or if he has a hard time having an erection (erectile dysfunction). Prolactin levels may be checked when a man's testosterone levels are really low.
• To see whether a tumor in the pituitary gland (called a prolactinoma) is making large amounts of prolactin.

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Author:	Sandy Jocoy, RN	Last Updated: July 15, 2008
Medical Review:	Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology
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