Oestradiol Progesterone and Prolactin Blood Test, from our experts to you.
Dr Sam Rodgers MBBS, MRCGPChief Medical Officer
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Are oestradiol, progesterone, and prolactin only important for women?
Although primarily thought of as female hormones, oestradiol, progesterone, and prolactin are also found in males in small amounts. Elevated levels of these hormones in men can be a result of taking testosterone replacement (TRT). Symptoms of an imbalance in these hormones include water retention, gynaecomastia (man-boobs), low libido, weight gain, erectile dysfunction, muscle loss, and infertility.
What is oestradiol?
Oestradiol (a form of oestrogen) is a steroid hormone needed by women and men. While testosterone is thought of as the most significant male hormone, it needs to be in balance with oestradiol to help control sex drive, erectile function, and sperm production.
What are progesterone and prolactin?
Progesterone is produced by the corpus luteum and adrenal glands. In men, it is the precursor to testosterone and maintains hormonal balance. Prolactin is produced by a small organ at the base of the brain called the anterior pituitary gland. Prolactin is best known for producing breast milk in females and for sexual function in men.
What's Included?
How to prepare for your test?
Special Instructions
Prepare for your Oestradiol Progesterone and Prolactin Blood Test by following these instructions. Please take your sample before 10am. Take this test two to five days after the start of your period, ideally on day three. It can be taken any time if you do not have periods. Hormonal contraception can affect this test, taking a break from this and using barrier contraception will give more accurate results. If you use hormone gels, pessaries, patches, or tablets, we strongly recommend selecting a venous sample to minimise contamination sometimes seen with finger-prick tests. Otherwise, administer any hormone supplements using gloves, and make sure your fingers have not been in contact with hormone supplements for at least four weeks before taking the test. Hormones can be absorbed deep within the skin even after minimal contact and remain there for weeks despite vigorous handwashing. Do not take biotin supplements for two days before this test, discuss this with your doctor if it is prescribed.