Diagnosing perimenopause can be challenging because the symptoms are non-specific and may overlap with other medical conditions.

To help rule out possible underlying health issues, we developed the Perimenopause – Exclusion Test (PET) to exclude common underlying conditions for your symptoms.

By doing so, we can more confidently diagnose and treat perimenopause symptoms or, in some cases, help identify other underlying conditions.

The test is suitable for you if you are still having periods* and typically consists of the following components:

Full Blood Count (FBC)

A full blood count measures the levels of red and white blood cells, haemoglobin, and platelets in the blood. Abnormalities in these levels can indicate an underlying health condition such as anaemia or infection.

In the context of perimenopause, a full blood count can help rule out other causes of fatigue and other symptoms commonly associated with perimenopause.

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and hormone production. Thyroid dysfunction, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can cause symptoms that overlap with perimenopause, including fatigue, weight changes, anxiety, and mood swings.

Measuring TSH levels can help identify thyroid abnormalities that may contribute to symptoms.

HbA1c (glycated haemoglobin test)

HbA1c is a marker of long-term blood sugar control and is commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes. Women approaching menopause are at higher risk for developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes due to hormonal changes and age-related factors.

By measuring HbA1c levels, the risk of diabetes can be assessed and guidance and advice given on managing blood sugar levels effectively.

Lipids

Lipid levels, including cholesterol and triglycerides, are important markers of cardiovascular health. Women going through perimenopause may experience changes in lipid levels, putting them at increased risk for heart disease.

Monitoring lipid levels can help identify any need for lifestyle modifications or medication to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is crucial in bone health, immune function, and overall wellbeing.Women in perimenopause are more likely to experience a decrease in bone density due to hormonal changes, putting them at higher risk for osteoporosis.

Measuring vitamin D levels can help identify whether supplementation would assist and support bone health and prevent fractures.

Ferritin

Ferritin is a marker of iron stores in the body and is essential for producing red blood cells and energy metabolism. Iron deficiency is common in women of reproductive age and can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and hair loss.

Monitoring ferritin levels can help identify if iron supplementation would assist in addressing and improving symptoms.

Our Perimenopause Exclusion Test is championed at The Female Health Clinic and a valuable perimenopause diagnostic tool as it helps us rule out other potential causes of symptoms, ensuring you receive appropriate treatment and support for your symptoms.

In addition to aiding the diagnosis of perimenopause, the exclusion blood test also provides valuable information about your overall health and wellness. Monitoring key markers such as lipid levels, vitamin D, and ferritin helps you to make informed decisions about factors such as your diet, lifestyle, and medical care and can be a prevention for serious disease later in life.

Perimenopause is a phase which most women experiencing a natural menopause will go through for 5 -10 years before their last period.

It is a transitional phase that signifies the onset of menopause. Menopause is defined as not having had a period for one entire year. Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause when the female body starts to experience several physical and emotional changes. Some women do not have perimenopause, for example, due to surgical menopause, such as removal of the uterus (hysterectomy).

Perimenopause can be medically defined as the time before menopause when the ovaries start to produce less oestrogen. Oestrogen is a hormone that regulates the menstrual cycle, and its decline results in irregular periods, hot flushes, and several other physical and emotional symptoms related to menopause.

Contrary to popular belief, hormone replacement therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for women experiencing perimenopause.

The average duration of perimenopause is about four years, but some women can experience perimenopause for up to ten years before menopause.

Baseline Hormone Profile

*If you have not had a period for six months, or need to check effectiveness of your treatment plan, we may also suggest our Hormone Baseline Test which includes oestrogen, testosterone,  and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) testing. 

Oestrogen

If your levels are too low (or conversely too high) it can cause irregular periods, hot flushes, tiredness, sleep problems, anxiety, and low libido. Oestrogen levels decline with age, and low levels may be an indication that you are peri/menopausal.

Testosterone

Testosterone is a hormone produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands, and its levels gradually decline over time. Low testosterone levels in women are often linked to decreased libido, low mood, fatigue, anxiety and difficulty concentrating. Measuring testosterone levels can be helpful in determining the need for testosterone replacement therapy.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) rises when oestrogen levels fall. Perimenopause cannot be confirmed based on a single test, but it will help gather more information on your hormone activity.

Both tests are completely optional for our patients. We can facilitate the tests before, during, or post-appointment, or you may wish to request them from your own General Practitioner or provide previous tests if you have them.

Symptoms of  perimenopause and menopause