How is menopause diagnosed?

The diagnosis of menopause is based on the presence of certain symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and changes in menstrual periods, and blood tests to confirm low levels of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone.

The most common symptom of menopause is hot flashes, which are sudden feelings of heat and sweating that can last for a few minutes or longer. Hot flashes may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as anxiety, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and headaches.

Menstrual periods also change during menopause. They may become irregular, shorter, or heavier, and eventually stop altogether. In the late stages of menopause, women may also experience vaginal dryness, skin thinning, and weight gain.

To confirm the diagnosis of menopause, a doctor may order blood tests to measure levels of estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are produced by the ovaries, and their levels decline during menopause. A blood test can also rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to menopause, such as thyroid problems or hormonal imbalances.

Another way to diagnose menopause is through the use of a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) test. FSH is a hormone that is produced by the pituitary gland. The levels of FSH increase during menopause, and a high FSH level can be an indication that a woman is menopausal.

In addition to blood tests, a doctor may also recommend other tests, such as a pelvic exam or ultrasound, to rule out other conditions that may be causing the symptoms of menopause.

Diagnosis of menopause can also include:

- The woman’s age; typically, menopause occurs in the late 40s or early 50s

- A history of menstrual irregularities

- Duration of time since the last menstrual period