Diagnosis of Menopause

Diagnosis of menopause

Overview

Menopause is usually diagnosed from age, symptoms and menstrual pattern. In otherwise healthy people aged 45 or over, NICE says it can be identified without laboratory tests when typical symptoms and period changes are present.

Definitions

• Perimenopause: vasomotor symptoms, such as hot flushes or sweats, that have recently started with menstrual cycle changes.
• Menopause: no period for at least 12 months when not using hormonal contraception.
• After hysterectomy: diagnosis may rely on symptom pattern because periods are no longer available as a marker.

When tests may help

FSH blood testing may be considered for people aged 40 to 45 with menopause symptoms and menstrual change, or under 40 when menopause is suspected. Hormonal contraception can make testing harder to interpret.

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.