Diagnosing perimenopause

Diagnosing perimenopause involves considering your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle and sometimes blood tests. No single test can definitively confirm perimenopause.

Current UK guidelines don’t require blood tests to confirm perimenopause in people over the age of 45 years with typical symptoms. In people under the age of 45 years, blood tests are usually carried out to exclude other causes.

Under the age of 45, blood tests may be required. These usually include:

Hormone level testing

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and oestrogen. FSH levels are typically (but not always) high in menopause, and oestradiol levels are typically low, but these can both fluctuate significantly in perimenopause.

General health screening

These are carried out to exclude other causes and may include Thyroid Function Tests, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Folate, Ferritin, full blood count, kidney, bone and liver function, cholesterol and HbA1c or glucose levels.

View our Blood Test Pricing page for more information and costs

If you are under the age of 40, you may be required to have more extensive blood tests such as antibody tests, and chromosome tests plus screening with bone scans.

What is not required?

Complex tests to diagnose menopause (including urine hormone tests, over the counter tests and saliva tests) are not required or recommended by the British Menopause Society.

Contrary to what you may have seen in adverts, the reason they are not recommended is not because they are expensive (although they are), but because they have not been validated independently nor do they add any value towards making a diagnosis.

What can I do to get diagnosed?Things to consider

Keep a symptom diary

Note changes in your menstrual cycle, mood, and other symptoms to help your doctor assess your situation.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can positively impact your well-being during perimenopause.

Always check with your GP if you are worried about any symptoms