What are normal menopausal FSH and LH levels?

Normal menopausal FSH and LH levels are typically elevated compared to premenopausal levels due to the loss of negative feedback from estrogen and progesterone. Here are the typical ranges for FSH and LH during menopause:

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH):

- Premenopausal: 5-20 mIU/mL

- Menopausal: >40 mIU/mL

Luteinizing Hormone (LH):

- Premenopausal: 2-15 mIU/mL

- Menopausal: >25 mIU/mL

It's important to note that these are general ranges, and individual levels may vary. A healthcare provider will interpret the specific hormone levels in the context of a woman's overall health and symptoms to determine if she is experiencing menopause or another condition.

During menopause, the ovaries gradually stop producing eggs, leading to a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels. As these hormone levels decrease, the pituitary gland responds by increasing its production of FSH and LH in an attempt to stimulate the ovaries to produce more estrogen and progesterone. However, since the ovaries are no longer responsive to these hormones, the FSH and LH levels continue to rise, eventually reaching postmenopausal levels.