Prolactin Levels: Should I Be Concerned?
I am a 21-year-old female living in the UK. I stand at a height of 167 cm and weigh 63 kg. Currently, I am not taking any medication. In April 2025, I underwent a blood test which revealed that my plasma prolactin level was at 619 mIU/L. This result fell slightly above the normal range and was categorized as borderline. My physician reassured me that this level was not alarmingly high and recommended that I follow up with another test in the future to monitor any changes. Recently, just a few weeks ago, I had a subsequent blood test, and this time the results indicated my plasma prolactin level had increased to 848 mIU/L. This reading was noted as satisfactory, and my doctor mentioned that there was no reason to discuss it further with me. I'm left wondering: is this increase in prolactin levels something I should be worried about, or is it acceptable? Should I consider scheduling an appointment with my GP to discuss this finding?
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 7:00:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about your prolactin levels, especially with the recent increase. Prolactin is a hormone that can be influenced by various factors, including stress, sleep, physical activity, and more. Although your levels are considered as "satisfactory" by your doctor, it’s important to understand what these results mean for you.
Explanation:
Prolactin is produced by the pituitary gland and is primarily associated with lactation. Elevated prolactin levels can sometimes indicate underlying conditions, such as hormonal imbalances or issues with the pituitary gland, but there can be many benign reasons for elevated levels too. Factors such as stress, recent illness, or even certain foods can transiently raise prolactin.
Since your first reading was borderline and the second has increased, it’s good that you’ve already taken the step to monitor this condition. While your physician reassured you, your concerns are valid, especially if there are changes in your health or symptoms that accompany these hormone levels.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Take note of any unusual symptoms, such as changes in menstrual cycles, breast tenderness, headaches, changes in vision, or unexplained weight changes. Keep a record of these, as they can provide helpful information for your healthcare provider.
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Consult Your GP: Considering the increase in your prolactin levels, I would recommend scheduling an appointment with your GP. It’s important to discuss your concerns and consider possible next steps, which may include further blood tests to assess other hormone levels or imaging studies if necessary.
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Lifestyle Check: Focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Ensure you have regular sleep patterns, manage stress through techniques like mindfulness or yoga, and engage in regular physical activity. These can help balance hormone levels.
Remember, monitoring and understanding your health is important, and it’s okay to seek clarification and support regarding your test results. You are your best advocate!
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