Testing for Perimenopause

Without a doubt, no one perimenopause test or sign is sufficient to determine that a woman has officially entered the menopausal transition. Nevertheless, some women choose to pursue labs for perimenopause for peace of mind or to properly diagnose their symptoms.

Continue reading to learn about some of the most common types of perimenopause tests so that you can take the uncertainty out of these last reproductive years.

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Types of Perimenopause Tests

Because each woman experiences perimenopause symptoms differently, doctors will take many factors into consideration when determining if a woman has entered perimenopause, including perimenopause test results, menopause symptoms, age, and menstrual history, among others.

The following hormones can be checked via saliva, urine, or blood tests to determine perimenopause. Speak with your healthcare professional about which would be best for you.

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) test

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland, and its levels increase temporarily each month to stimulate ovaries to mature eggs. FSH levels during menopause tend to increase in attempt to make the ovaries produce more estrogen.

Nevertheless, keep in mind that one high FSH reading is not enough to indicate that a woman has entered menopause because hormones can fluctuate dramatically on a daily basis.

Estrogen test

Estrogen is one of the main reproductive hormones present throughout women's lives as they transition all the way from puberty into postmenopause.

Since menopause is marked by a time of drastic fluctuations as the ovaries finish reproductive functions, perimenopause tests that measure estrogen will look for lower than normal levels in a woman's body.

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test

Perimenopause hormone testing may include a TSH test in order to rule out a thyroid problem, whose symptoms are similar to those of the menopausal transition and may include irregular periods, hot flashes, and fatigue.

Recommendations

When planning to visit your doctor, it is recommended that you keep track of your symptoms leading up to your appointment. It is also a good idea to make a list of questions you would like your doctor to answer as well as a list of any medications or supplements you are taking, along with the dosages.

By undergoing a perimenopause test alongside a thorough medical history check, you and your doctor will hopefully be able to understand what you are experiencing. If you want to learn more about effective symptom alleviation, click on the following link about perimenopause treatments.