Perimenopause is where the hormonal symptoms of menopause start and can last anywhere from a few months to several years. Unpredictable hormone fluctuations can cause headaches, irregular periods, hot flushes, night sweats, sleeping difficulties, frequent urination, mood swings and facial hair. These symptoms typically disappear once the ovaries have officially retired. Menopause itself is defined as the point when a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period, and the average age for this is around 51.
What we test
Female Hormone Panel
This blood test measures the levels of key hormones that change with peri-menopause. This menopause blood test can also be used to monitor Hormone Replacement Therapy.
Levels decline with age and results in menopause when the ovaries stop producing eggs. Low levels of oestradiol can lead to osteoporosis, problems with the menstrual cycle and fertility, as well as fatigue and depression.
The sex hormone produced mainly in the ovaries following ovulation and is a crucial part of the menstrual cycle. Progesterone helps to combat PMS and period pain issues, assists fertility and promotes calmness and quality of sleep.
Important in the production of eggs by the ovaries. Levels of FSH rise in women as egg production declines, therefore raised FSH is an indicator of the onset of the menopause.
Governs the menstrual cycle, peaking before ovulation. Raised LH can signal that you are not ovulating, are menopausal or that your hormones are not in balance (as with polycystic ovaries).
Normally this ratio is about 1:1 meaning FSH and LH levels in the blood are similar. In women with polycystic ovaries the LH to FSH ratio is often higher e.g. 2:1 or even 3:1
A long-acting adrenal hormone which regulates energy production, the immune system, brain chemistry, bone formation, muscle tone and libido. DHEA-S is converted by the body into testosterone and other sex hormones.
High levels commonly seen in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) which can lead to difficulties in conceiving. Symptoms can include irregular periods, loss of hair from the head, excess facial and body hair, unexplained weight gain and acne.
The FAI is a calculated ratio used to estimate the amount of active, or 'free' testosterone in the bloodstream that is not bound to SHBG.
SHBG is a protein that binds tightly to testosterone and oestradiol. Changes in SHBG can affect the amount of hormone available for use by the body's tissues.
Test instructions
Take test 7 days before predicted date of menstruation (if known). If menstrual cycle is 28 days, test on day 21 (where day 1 is the first day of bleeding).
Download and print your pathology form from your i-screen dashboard.
Take your form to one of our affiliated collection centres to have your sample taken.
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