What is the Prolactin hormone?

Prolactin is an essential hormone that promotes breast milk production after childbirth. It is produced naturally by the pituitary gland. Low levels of Prolactin are normal for non-pregnant women and men, and high levels are normal for pregnant women. If Prolactin levels are high in a non-pregnant person, they may be linked with prolactinoma, a tumour found in the pituitary gland in the brain. Although these tumours are typically benign, they may cause the following symptoms:

• Breast milk production in non-pregnant women and men
• Headaches and visual disturbances due to optic nerve pressure from tumour expansion
• Infertility
• Irregular periods
• Loss of sex drive
• Erectile dysfunction due to limitations on sex hormone production because of the growing tumour

Why consider a Prolactin Test?

A Prolactin Test measures Prolactin levels in your system. If you suffer from any of the above symptoms, we highly recommend you take this test. If left untreated, prolactinomas can grow and cause lasting damage to the tissue surrounding these tumours.

Explain the Better2Know test kit process?

The test kit will be sent to your door, and it will include tools to take a blood sample. You will then use the pre-paid postage envelope also provided in the kit to send your sample to onne of our accredited labs across Ireland, where we will efficiently and accurately analyse your sample.

When will my test kit arrive?

Orders placed before end of business hours Monday-Friday are sent out that same day. Once you process your order, our Prolactin test kit should reach you in 2 to 4 days via An Post.

How will I get my results?

Within one workday after your sample is analysed at our lab, your results will be available. A member of our Patient Services team will contact you directly as soon as the results are accessible. In addition, you can check your secure patient portal periodically for your results. As soon as they are ready, they will be listed in the portal.

What should I do about my Prolactin test results?

If your sample indicates substantial qualities of Prolactin in your system, you should meet with a doctor. Better2Know can assist you in arranging a consultation with a skilled doctor in your area. You can also meet with your GP. It is critical you meet with a healthcare professional to further discuss abnormal results and be advised about next steps.

How do I order the home test?

On this page, click ‘Add to Basket’ to process your order. If you prefer to purchase your kit over the phone, a member of our team will be happy to assist you. Simply call the number at the top of this page. Our highly trained Patient Services team is available 24/7 to help you with orders or answer any questions you have.