Four Hormones That Should Be Tested in Women After Menopause

Because hormones are responsible for proper functioning and health, women who have gone through menopause should have specific hormone levels checked regularly. Blood and urine can be used to determine hormone levels, but blood testing is typically more accurate, according to Dr. Dixie Mills.

Menopause Basics

• Menopause is indicated by the absence of a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months in a woman, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. Menopause is a natural condition where a woman's ovaries stop functioning, and various hormones change.

FSH

• FSH is the follicle stimulating hormone. It is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that responds to low estrogen levels. High levels can be indicative of a menopausal state during cycles, and can assuage your fears about the changes occurring in your body.

LH

• LH, or luteinizing hormone, is similar to the FSH, and will also drop during menopause. Higher levels of the luteinizing hormone can indicate menopause but are also helpful in determining ovarian disorders.

Estrogen

• Estrogen is responsible for female sexuality and menstruation. Low levels of estrogen cause menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, memory problems and mood swings.

Progesterone

• Progesterone is responsible for bone growth, urinary regulation and keeping depression at bay. Low levels of estrogen can be treated with creams or hormone replacement therapy that will help to keep the levels from dropping further during menopause.