What is menopause?

Menopause is a biological change in females typically occurring between the ages of 40-60 years old. It is caused by decreased production of the female sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone. This results in the ovaries stopping the monthly release of eggs. Symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, changes in mood, lower sex drive, irregular periods, thinning hair and weight gain. Menopause can be confirmed by the levels of hormones in the blood which change during this process. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) are produced by the pituitary gland in the brain and typically fluctuate during the menstrual cycle to control maturation and release of eggs. Consistently elevated FSH and LH levels can be an indicator that a woman is going through the menopause as the ovaries stop responding to these hormones. In contrast, oestradiol levels decrease as the ovaries stop producing and releasing eggs. Thyroid hormones are also included in this test since thyroid problems share similar symptoms to menopause.  

Why take the test?

This test measures the level of FSH, LH, oestradiol and thyroid hormones in the blood. It can be used to help investigate the menopause and to distinguish the menopause from thyroid problems.