Menopause Hormone Test

Test Code: 004309, 004283, 004515, 000620 Specimen Type: Blood

Description:

Menopause Hormone Test (Labcorp)

What is menopause?

Menopause is the stage of a woman's life when their menstrual periods stop and they are no longer able to become pregnant.  This is a result of the ovaries ceasing to produce reproductive hormones and releasing eggs.  This typically occurs naturally as part of the normal aging process. 

When does menopause start?

For the majority of women in the United States menopause begins around the age of 50-52 but may occur earlier or later for some people. 

What are the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause?

Menopause is typically divided into 3 stages.  Most of the symptoms normally associated with menopause occur during perimenopause.

• Perimenopause: Perimenopause can begin as much as 8-10 years before menopause as the body gradually produces less estrogen.  During this time many women experience symptoms such as hot flashes, mood changes, irregular periods, difficulty sleeping, frequent urination, dry skin, joint or muscle pain, thinning hair, changes in sex drive, or weight gain.  Not everyone will experience the same symptoms at the same time and the intensity of the symptoms will vary from person to person.
• Menopause: Menopause is defined as the point at which someone has not experienced a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months.
• Postmenopause: Postmenopause will normally last for the rest of a person's life.  Most or all of the perimenopause symptoms will cease but some may persist for months or years.

Is there a blood test for menopause?

Some of the symptoms of menopause can be common to other conditions.  If someone is experiencing symptoms but is not certain of the cause, blood work can help to determine if they are in fact experiencing menopause or if there may be other reasons. Lab test results should be followed up with a doctor, especially when results are outside of the normal range.

The following tests are included in the menopause screening panel:

• Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): FSH is a hormone that stimulates the ovaries to produce estrogen.  FSH levels typically increase during and after menopause.
• Luteinizing Hormone (LH): LH is a hormone that triggers the ovulation.  LH levels fluctuate during menopause and typically increase during postmenopause.
• Estradiol (E2): The main form of estrogen produced by the ovaries.  Estradiol levels decrease during menopause and eventually become undetectable.
• Thyroid Panel with TSH: Some of the common symptoms of menopause can also be caused by a thyroid disorder.  Measuring thyroid hormone levels can help to differentiate menopause from a thyroid condition.

The menopause testing panel typically takes 2-3 business days to receive results.

We also offer a postmenopause blood testing package that can help check for several common postmenopausal health issues.

Where can I find a Menopause Blood Test near me?

Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.