Diagnosing early menopause

Diagnosing early menopause

Overview

Diagnosis of early menopause starts with symptoms, menstrual pattern, age and medical history. Blood tests may be used in people under 45, especially when premature ovarian insufficiency is suspected.

Assessment

• A GP may ask about period changes, pregnancy possibility, contraception, family history, cancer treatment, surgery, weight, smoking and symptoms.
• Blood tests may include follicle-stimulating hormone depending on age and contraception use.
• Other causes of missed or irregular periods, such as pregnancy, thyroid disease or high prolactin, may need to be considered.

Limits of testing

NICE advises that menopause can usually be identified without laboratory tests in otherwise healthy people aged 45 or over with typical symptoms, but FSH testing can be considered in people aged 40 to 45 with symptoms and menstrual change, or under 40 when menopause is suspected.

When to seek medical advice

See a GP if symptoms are affecting daily life, if periods stop or become very irregular before age 45, or if bleeding occurs after menopause. Use NHS 111 for urgent advice if symptoms are severe or sudden, and call 999 in a life-threatening emergency.

Sources

• NHS, Menopause and perimenopause: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause-and-perimenopause/
  Relevance: NHS gives UK patient information on menopause, perimenopause, symptoms, treatment, self-care and support.
• NHS, Early or premature menopause: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/early-or-premature-menopause/
  Relevance: NHS explains definitions, symptoms, causes, treatments and complications of menopause before age 45 and premature menopause before age 40.
• NICE NG23, Menopause identification and management recommendations: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng23/chapter/Recommendations
  Relevance: NICE provides current UK clinical recommendations on diagnosis, individualised care, HRT, non-hormonal options, premature ovarian insufficiency and review.
• NHS, Things you can do to help with menopause and perimenopause symptoms: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause-and-perimenopause/things-you-can-do/
  Relevance: NHS outlines practical lifestyle measures for symptoms, bone health, sleep, mood and when to get help.
• NHS, How menopause and perimenopause are treated: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause-and-perimenopause/treatment/
  Relevance: NHS summarises HRT and other treatment options, including assessment-first prescribing and individual risk discussion.

Disclaimer

Educational only. Results vary. Not a cure. Use NHS 111 for urgent advice if symptoms are severe, sudden or worrying. Call 999 in a life-threatening emergency.