Prolactin is the milk hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. It normally rises during pregnancy and breastfeeding — but elevation outside this context indicates a problem.
Why the Test Is Ordered:
- Missed or infrequent periods.
- Milky breast discharge without pregnancy (galactorrhea).
- Fertility problems and lack of ovulation.
- Persistent headache or visual problems.
- Unexplained hair loss.
Causes of Elevated Prolactin:
- Pituitary tumor (Prolactinoma): Most common organic cause — usually benign and small.
- Medications: Psychiatric drugs (Risperidone, Haloperidol), stomach drugs (Metoclopramide, Domperidone).
- Hypothyroidism: Raises prolactin secondarily.
- Stress: Raises it slightly.
Reference Values:
- Normal: Below 25 ng/ml in women.
- 25-100: Mild elevation — usually medications or stress.
- Above 200: Strongly suggests pituitary tumor.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we test prolactin as part of the female hormone package with comprehensive result interpretation.