What is the normal level of prolactin during lactation?
Feb 14, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Xiaopeng
Introduction
During late pregnancy and lactation, women experience increased secretion of prolactin, which promotes breast development and milk production. In general, the peak level of serum prolactin in non-pregnant women usually does not exceed 20 ng/ml, whereas the normal range of prolactin in lactating women should be between 5.18 and 26.5 ng/ml.
The normal prolactin level during lactation is 5.18–26.5 ng/mL, and women can use this range to assess their health status.
Prolactin is a peptide hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. It plays a key physiological role in stimulating breast milk production and is important in regulating the body's endocrine system. It also modulates cellular and humoral immunity. During late pregnancy and lactation, women experience increased prolactin secretion, which promotes breast development and milk production. In non-pregnant women, peak serum prolactin levels generally do not exceed 20 ng/mL, whereas the normal range for women who are breastfeeding is 5.18–26.5 ng/mL. If a woman's prolactin level exceeds 35 ng/mL during lactation, this indicates elevated prolactin and she should seek medical evaluation promptly and receive appropriate treatment based on the underlying cause.
Women should maintain healthy lifestyle habits during lactation: dressing warmly to avoid colds, maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding overeating, and engaging in moderate physical activity such as walking or jogging.
