Understanding Lab Tests for Menopause
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Menopause is a natural biological process marking the end of a woman's reproductive years, characterized by the permanent cessation of menstrual periods. While menopause is often suspected based on symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and irregular periods, specific blood tests can confirm the diagnosis by measuring the hormonal changes that occur during this transition.
Top Recommended Test
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
This is one of the primary tests for diagnosing menopause. High levels of FSH in women indicate that the ovaries have stopped producing eggs, and the body is increasing FSH production in an attempt to stimulate egg production. Elevated FSH levels are a key marker of menopause.
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How Blood Tests Diagnose Menopause
During menopause, the ovaries gradually stop producing eggs and significantly reduce hormone production. This leads to characteristic changes in hormone levels that can be measured through blood tests. Specifically, estrogen levels drop while follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels rise as the body attempts to stimulate the ovaries.
Other Relevant Tests
Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
This combination test measures both FSH and LH levels together. During menopause, both hormones increase as the ovaries gradually stop functioning and estrogen and progesterone levels decrease. This comprehensive test provides a complete picture of reproductive hormone status.
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Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
LH levels are typically elevated after menopause as the ovaries stop releasing eggs and producing estrogen. Measuring LH helps confirm menopausal status and can be particularly useful when evaluated alongside other reproductive hormones.
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Estradiol
Estradiol is the most active form of estrogen, and its levels decrease significantly during menopause. Low estradiol levels, combined with elevated FSH, strongly indicate menopause. This test helps confirm the hormonal changes responsible for menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.
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Estradiol, Ultrasensitive, LC/MS/MS
This highly sensitive test can detect very low levels of estradiol using advanced laboratory techniques. It's particularly useful for accurately measuring the significant decline in estradiol that occurs during menopause, especially when standard estradiol tests may not be sensitive enough.
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Estrogens (Total), Serum
This test measures overall estrogen levels in the blood. During menopause, total estrogen levels drop significantly, contributing to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes. This comprehensive estrogen measurement helps assess the overall hormonal changes occurring during menopause.
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Estrone, LC/MS/MS
While ovarian estrogen production decreases during menopause, adipose tissue continues to produce estrone. This test measures estrone levels using precise laboratory methods, helping to understand the complete estrogen profile during menopause and its contribution to ongoing symptoms.
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Understanding Your Results
Menopausal diagnosis typically involves elevated FSH levels (usually above 30 mIU/mL) combined with low estrogen levels. The combination of these hormonal changes, along with clinical symptoms and the absence of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months, confirms menopause. Your healthcare provider will interpret these results in the context of your age, symptoms, and medical history.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Hormone levels can fluctuate, and multiple tests may be needed for accurate diagnosis. Always consult with a healthcare provider for proper interpretation of test results and treatment options.
