Prolactin Test in Kathmandu

About this test

Prolactin is the hormone made by the pituitary gland at the base of the brain whose main job is to prepare the breasts for milk production and sustain breastfeeding after delivery. This blood test measures how much of it is circulating, and it is most often requested when prolactin is suspected of being too high. In women, the usual triggers are irregular or absent periods, difficulty conceiving, or a milky nipple discharge (galactorrhoea) in someone who is not pregnant or nursing; in men, it is ordered for low libido, erectile difficulty, or unexplained infertility. A raised result has many causes — pregnancy and breastfeeding are normal ones, but it can also point to a benign pituitary tumour called a prolactinoma, an underactive thyroid, kidney disease, or, very commonly, medicines such as certain antipsychotics, anti-nausea drugs like metoclomide, and some blood-pressure tablets. Because stress and recent meals or exercise nudge the number upward, a single borderline-high value is often confirmed with a repeat sample taken under calm, rested conditions. When the level is markedly elevated, doctors typically interpret it alongside thyroid function tests (TSH), other pituitary hormones, a pregnancy test where relevant, and an MRI of the pituitary. Occasionally the lab also checks for macroprolactin, a harmless large form that can mislead. The result guides whether you simply need reassurance, a change of medication, treatment for thyroid disease, or referral to an endocrinologist for further pituitary assessment.

Sample type

Blood (serum)

Preparation

No fasting required, but the sample is best taken 3–4 hours after waking, as levels are highest during sleep and early morning. Sit and rest quietly for 20–30 minutes before the draw, since stress, exercise, and even a difficult needle can falsely raise the result. Avoid breast or nipple stimulation beforehand, and tell us about any medicines you take.

Turnaround time

Reports for Prolactin are typically ready within: Same Day. Reports can be collected at the clinic during opening hours or shared via WhatsApp once they are ready.

Also known as

Other hormones tests we run

These are routinely ordered alongside Prolactin or as part of the same diagnostic workup.

How to book

WhatsApp is the fastest way — message us with the test name and your preferred time, and we'll confirm a slot the same day. You can also walk into the clinic at Rumba Chowk, Sanobharang any day between 7AM and 8PM, or fill in our online booking form.