For women, this test measures the level of the hormone prolactin, which is made by the pituitary gland. It is used to find the cause of abnormal nipple discharge or if a woman is not having periods, or if a woman is having a hard time becoming pregnant.
For men, this test is used when a pituitary gland problem is suspect, if a man lacks sexual desire or if he has a hard time having an erection. This test can also determine if a tumor inthe pituitary gland is making large amount of prolactin.
