The Menopause Test is Called The FSH Blood Test

The menopause test, is medically known as the FSH (follicle stimulating hormone)test and measures the level of this hormone in your blood. This hormone is produced by a gland in your brain. In women FSH simulates the production of eggs and is important in the regulation of menstruation.

This test is used to diagnose menopause in women as well as other unrelated problems.

How do you prepare for this test? You may need to avoid taking certain medicines before the test because they might affect the test result. Make sure your healthcare provider knows about any medicines, herbs or supplements that you are taking. Don't stop any of your regular medicines without first consulting with your healthcare provider.

How is the FSH test done? A small amount of blood is taken from your arm with a needle. The blood is collected in tubes and sent to a lab.

Having this test will take just a few minutes of your time. There is no risk of getting AIDS, hepatitis or any other blood-borne disease from this test.

How will you get the test result? Ask your healthcare provider when and how you will get the result of your test.

What does the test result mean? The normal range of FSH depends on your age and sex. (men also have this hormone).

For women who are menstruating, the normal range is 5 mIU/mL to 30mIU/mL.

For women in menopause or after menopause, the values range from 50 mIU/mL to 100 mIU/mL.

Other hormone tests are done with the FSH test. The results of the different tests are interpreted together to make a diagnosis.

In women FSH and the blood level of the hormone estradiol are measured. (Estradiol is a type of estrogen. Estrogens are hormones responsible for the growth and functioning of a woman's reproductive tract.)

* The level of FSH is increased and level of estradiol is decreased in women who are in menopause or who have gone through it.

* FSH and estradiol levels are higher than normal in girls who have started puberty at a very young age.

* Hormone therapy can cause increased levels of FSH and estradiol.

* FSH and estradiol levels are higher than normal if a woman has ovarian cancer or adrenal cancer.

* FSH and estradiol levels are lower than normal in women who have anorexia nervosa or whose hormone regulating system (the pituitary and hypothalamus) isn't working normally.

* FSH is higher than normal and estradiol is lower than normal if a woman has Turner's syndrome (a genetic abnormality).

There are many other reasons why FSH test results may be outside the normal range. Sometimes the results vary with recent activity or diet. At other times the way the sample is collected or stored can influence the results. If you are concerned about your lab results, talk to your healthcare provider.

What if your results are not normal? Test results are only one part of a larger picture that takes into account your medical history and current health. Sometimes a test needs to be repeated to check the first result. Talk to your healthcare privider about your result and ask questions. Ask if and when you need more tests.

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