There are a few different blood tests that can help determine if a woman is in menopause or perimenopause. Some key ones include:
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
- FSH is one of the most commonly used blood tests to evaluate menopause status.
- FSH levels normally fluctuate during the menstrual cycle. But as a woman approaches menopause, FSH levels rise and remain elevated as ovulation ends.
- FSH levels above 25 to 30 mIU/mL are generally considered indicative of menopause.
Estradiol
- Estradiol is a form of estrogen produced by the ovaries.
- Blood tests measuring estradiol levels can also help confirm menopause, as levels will be low when ovarian function declines.
Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH)
- AMH is produced by cells in ovarian follicles and is used as a marker of ovarian reserve.
- AMH levels decline steadily as a woman approaches menopause, so testing AMH can give an indication of how close a woman is to menopause.
Some other tests that may be helpful include:
- Luteinizing hormone (LH) - LH works with FSH and also increases as menopause starts.
- Thyroid tests - Thyroid issues can sometimes mimic perimenopausal symptoms, so thyroid hormone levels may be checked.
- Pregnancy test - To rule out pregnancy as a cause of missing periods.
When to Test
Testing FSH, estradiol, and other relevant hormones can be helpful if a woman:
- Is between ages 45-60 and wants clarification if peri/menopausal changes are happening
- Has menstrual cycle irregularities
- Is experiencing hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, or other menopausal symptoms
- Wants to understand fertility/pregnancy potential more clearly
Some physicians recommend annual blood work including FSH and estradiol for women over age 40 to keep an eye on reproductive aging.
Interpreting Test Results
- There is no single blood test that can definitively diagnose menopause. Doctors will look at multiple hormone levels alongside menstrual cycle history and symptoms.
- Test results need to be interpreted based on the reference range for the specific lab used. Ranges can vary.
- Blood tests offer an objective snapshot - but women can still have menopausal symptoms even if lab results are not conclusive. Dialogue with your doctor is key.
- Repeat testing may be needed in some cases for clarity.
Management Options if Menopausal
The transition through perimenopause and into menopause can present bothersome symptoms that disrupt quality of life for some women. If blood tests indicate you are reaching menopause,
some management options to discuss with your doctor include:
- Estrogen or compounded hormone therapy to relieve hot flashes, night sweats
- Vaginal estrogen preparations to help with painful sex, dryness
- Non-hormonal medications like SSRI antidepressants if needed for mood issues
- Lifestyle approaches including stress reduction techniques, dietary changes, exercise
- Use of a personal lubricant for vaginal dryness during sex
If blood tests suggest that menopause could be approaching, being proactive with your healthcare provider about options to curb bothersome symptoms can help ease the transition. Monitor any changes, ask questions, and find the solutions that help you thrive during this next phase of womanhood.
