Tests and Investigations

Most of the women above the age of 45 do not require any blood tests to diagnose perimenopause or menopause. Diagnosis is generally based on 3 things - the woman’s symptoms, her age and how are the periods.

 

Hormones levels fluctuate a lot during perimenopause and are unreliable for diagnosis. If a woman’s blood hormones levels are normal, it does not mean that she may not be perimenopausal.

 

In some circumstances blood tests might be recommended.

• It might be considered in women between the age of 40-45 years of age if they are having menopausal symptoms or changes in their period.

 

• In women less than 40 years of age with irregular periods or menopausal symptoms it is essential to have blood test done. 2 blood tests are done 6 weeks apart to confirm premature menopause.

 

FSH: The main blood test which is done to diagnose menopause is called Follicle Stimulating Hormone. It is produced by a small gland in our brain called Pituitary and it acts on the ovaries to control its function. After menopause, the FSH levels become high.

 

Serum Estradiol: This is sometimes done to monitor response to HRT treatment.

 

Testosterone level: This may be required to diagnose HSDD in postmenopausal women, which is lack of sexual desire, arousal, or orgasm.

 

DHEA:  These are also important female androgens and have role in libido problems, fatigue, and vaginal symptoms.

 

Thyroid Function Tests: Underactive thyroid is a common condition and often its symptoms overlap with menopausal symptoms. These bloods can be done to diagnose if there is an underlying thyroid problem.

 

Routine Health Check Bloods: It is recommended that women above the age of 40 have health check bloods. This includes screening tests for diabetes, cholesterol, full blood count, Vitamin D.

 

DEXA scan: This is a test for bone density to screen for Osteopenia and Osteoporosis. For women undergoing premature or early menopause, it is essential to check the bone strength.

 

Mammography: It is recommended that all women above the age of 50 go for mammography every 3 years. This is provided free of cost as part of NHS breast screening programme.