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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Could Eating Before Test Might Have Affected Prolactin Levels?

Hi, I have been trying to conceive for a year. My blood work showed a slight elavation of prolactin which was 35. However, the nurse told me before the blood work that I didn't need to fast and that I could come in for the blood work after work, which was 4:00 in the afternoon. Could eating have effected the prolactin levels? Also, I read somewhere that prolactin levels are the highest in the morning, so if I took the test in the afternoon does that mean my levels will probably be higher since I have to retest in the morning? Also, could a prolactin level of 35 cause me to not have gotton pregnant for the past year?
Mon, 15 Sep 2014
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Pathologist and Microbiologist,  's  Response
Hi!
welcome to HCM!
Fasting is not required for prolactin test.However a pooled sample prepared by drawing 3 sample at a difference of 20 minutes is preferred .
High blood prolactin concentration interferes with the function of the ovaries decreasing the estrogen secretion.hence causing irregular or absent menstrual periods, infertility, menopausal symptoms and osteoporosis.
Stress, physical and psychological can also cause elevated prolactin levels.Upto 20 ng/mL is taken as normal for adult non pregnant female your levels are slightly high,a repeat test with pooled sample is suggested,Take care!
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Could Eating Before Test Might Have Affected Prolactin Levels?

Hi! welcome to HCM! Fasting is not required for prolactin test.However a pooled sample prepared by drawing 3 sample at a difference of 20 minutes is preferred . High blood prolactin concentration interferes with the function of the ovaries decreasing the estrogen secretion.hence causing irregular or absent menstrual periods, infertility, menopausal symptoms and osteoporosis. Stress, physical and psychological can also cause elevated prolactin levels.Upto 20 ng/mL is taken as normal for adult non pregnant female your levels are slightly high,a repeat test with pooled sample is suggested,Take care!