Menopause describes the last menstrual period a woman ever has. It can occur naturally or artificially such as following removal of the ovaries. The average age of the menopause is around 51 years but it can occur very much earlier than this.

 

When should I test?

 

If you are still having monthly periods, take the test on the first day of your cycle (the day bleeding starts) and repeat the test 7 days later.

If you are no longer having periods, take the test anytime and repeat the test 7 days later. It's best to test your first morning urine as it has the highest level of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and will give you the clearest result.

 

How does the test work?

 

The ovary is the main source of oestrogen which it secretes in to the blood stream so that it can affect other parts of the body. To produce oestrogen, the ovary has` to be stimulated by Follicle Stimulating Hormone (known as FSH) which is produced by the pituitary gland. Normally, increasing levels of oestrogen in the blood reduce the amount of FSH; if levels of oestrogen fall, FSH levels are increased.

As the ovary ages, it becomes less efficient at producing oestrogen so blood levels of oestrogen tend to fall. The pituitary gland responds to this by increasing the amount of FSH it secretes in to the blood stream in an attempt to increase oestrogen production by the ovary. FSH is excreted in to the urine and this test relies on detecting these higher levels of FSH.

Urine tests are much more convenient than blood tests and are ideal for doing at home.

 

How accurate is the test?

 

This test showed 98% accuracy in laboratory trials and is used by healthcare professionals.

 

When Can I Stop Using Contraception?

 

This test does not indicate fertility. Only stop using contraception when your doctor confirms a positive result.

 

How Can Menopausal Symptoms Be Treated?

 

Not every woman experiences symptoms around the time of, and following, the menopause and in some women only mild symptoms occur which can be easily tolerated. Other women may be troubled by more severe or more persistent symptoms. Fortunately, treatments are available, so seek advice from your doctor.

You may also benefit from seeing your doctor to assess whether you are at risk of osteoporosis (thinning of the bones) as this risk increases in some women following the menopause.

 

What is the Perimenopause?

 

The perimenopause is the time leading up to your final period, the menopause, and the 12 months following it.