How much higher than normal is prolactin considered elevated?

How much higher than normal should prolactin levels be considered elevated? It is recommended to analyze according to different physiological stages, such as the follicular phase, luteal phase, and pregnancy. The detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Follicular Phase

Prolactin levels vary at different stages. In women during the follicular phase, prolactin is normally less than 23 μg/L. Levels above 23 μg/L are considered elevated.

2. Luteal Phase

During the luteal phase, normal prolactin levels range from 5.0 to 40.0 μg/L. Values exceeding 40.0 μg/L are considered elevated.

3. Pregnancy

Prolactin levels vary throughout pregnancy. Normally, they should be less than 80 μg/L in the first trimester, less than 160 μg/L in the second trimester, and less than 400 μg/L in the third trimester. Levels above these thresholds are considered elevated.

In addition, for men, normal prolactin levels are below 20 μg/L. Levels above 20 μg/L are considered elevated.