Navigating the journey of menopause, or even just approaching it, can feel like uncharted territory — one minute you’re comfortable, and the next you’re sweating through your sheets or feeling more emotional than usual. As our bodies start to change, it’s completely natural to have a lot of questions about what’s happening and why. One of the big questions many women ask is, “Should I get a menopause test?” So let’s dig into this topic together, explore what menopause testing involves, and figure out when it might be right for you.
Understanding menopause and perimenopause
Before diving into the testing side of things, let’s talk a bit about what menopause actually is. Menopause marks the point when you’ve gone a full 12 months without a menstrual period. It usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age around 51 here in the U.S. But, getting there isn’t like flipping a switch — it’s more of a gradual process.
The years leading up to menopause are known as perimenopause, and this phase can be a rollercoaster. Perimenopause can last from just a few months to over a decade (daunting, we know). During this time, your hormone levels start to fluctuate, causing all kinds of symptoms that may feel like a sneak preview of menopause.
Signs you might be approaching menopause
So, what are the signs that you might be getting closer to menopause? There’s a wide range of symptoms that often go hand-in-hand with fluctuating hormones. If you’re in your 40s or 50s, you might experience any of the following:
- Irregular periods: They may become more or less frequent, shorter, or longer, and they can sometimes just catch you by surprise.
- Hot flashes and night sweats: These can happen at the most inconvenient times, like during a work meeting or in the middle of a good night’s sleep.
- Mood changes: Hormone shifts can bring mood swings, irritability, or even increased anxiety.
- Vaginal dryness: This can cause discomfort during sex, or even just in daily life.
- Sleep disturbances: Insomnia or waking up in the middle of the night can make you feel groggy and tired the next day.
- Changes in libido: Some women experience a drop in their sex drive, while others find it increases.
- Weight gain and slower metabolism: You may notice it’s harder to keep weight off, especially around your middle.
If these symptoms are popping up, you might wonder if it’s time for a menopause test. After all, knowing exactly what’s going on can help you take the right steps for your health.
What does menopause testing involve?
Menopause testing is usually done through blood tests that measure certain hormone levels. These tests can help provide insight into what’s happening in your body. Here’s a quick rundown of the key hormones that doctors typically check:
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): FSH levels rise as menopause approaches, signaling a decrease in ovarian function.
- Estradiol: This form of estrogen drops during menopause, which can lead to many of the symptoms you might be feeling.
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): Because thyroid problems can mimic menopause symptoms, doctors often check TSH to rule out any thyroid issues.
In some cases, a doctor might also check for luteinizing hormone (LH) or anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) to get a more comprehensive view of your reproductive health.
When to consider taking a menopause test
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to when you should take a menopause test, but there are a few scenarios where it might be a good idea:
- You’re experiencing symptoms that seem menopause-related, and you want to confirm if that’s what’s happening.
- You’re considering hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and need a clearer picture of your hormone levels.
- You’re younger than 45 and noticing signs of early menopause.
- You’ve had a hysterectomy, which makes it harder to tell if you’ve entered menopause based solely on symptoms.
- You’re having difficulty conceiving, and your doctor recommends checking your ovarian reserve.
Remember though, menopause is a natural part of aging, and not everyone needs to have their hormone levels tested. Many women navigate this transition just fine without any formal testing.
The limitations of menopause testing
While hormone tests can give you useful information, they’re not always definitive. Hormone levels can vary from day to day, especially during perimenopause. A single test might not capture the whole picture, so doctors often use these tests alongside your symptoms and medical history to get a more accurate idea of what’s happening.
And keep in mind — there’s no specific “magic number” for hormone levels that declares, “Yes, you’re in menopause!” Instead, it’s about looking at the whole picture.
Alternatives to hormone testing
If you’re not sold on the idea of hormone testing, that’s okay, too! There are other ways to track your progress through perimenopause and menopause:
- Keep a symptom diary: Write down any changes in your periods, hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms. Over time, you’ll start to notice patterns.
- Regular check-ups: Talking to your healthcare provider about your symptoms can give you valuable insights, even without testing.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Sometimes, simple changes — like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction — can make a huge difference in managing menopause symptoms.
When to seek medical advice
Menopause is natural, but that doesn’t mean you should just “tough it out” if you’re struggling. There are times when it’s important to consult a healthcare provider:
- If your symptoms are severe or significantly impacting your daily life.
- If you’re under 45 and noticing signs of early menopause.
- If you have a history of cancer or are at higher risk for osteoporosis.
- If you’re considering hormone replacement therapy and want to make an informed choice.
Your doctor can help guide you through this transition and provide personalized recommendations based on your specific health needs.
Embracing the change
Whether or not you decide to pursue menopause testing, the most important thing is to listen to your body and seek support when you need it. After all, menopause is a normal part of life — and you’re more than equipped to handle it!
By staying informed and being proactive about your health, you can embrace this transition with confidence and a positive outlook. Remember, menopause doesn’t define you; it’s simply a part of your story, and you have the power to write this chapter on your terms.
Kristyn Hodgdon is the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Rescripted.