From the Research
Laboratory tests for perimenopause should include follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and sometimes anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) to confirm the clinical suspicion of perimenopause and rule out other conditions. When evaluating the usefulness of various laboratory tests, it's essential to consider the most recent and highest quality studies. Although a recent study published in 2022 in the journal Biomedicines 1 discussed the usefulness of complete blood count (CBC) in assessing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, this is not directly relevant to the diagnosis of perimenopause.
Key Laboratory Tests
- FSH levels above 30 mIU/mL, especially when combined with low estradiol levels (below 50 pg/mL), suggest perimenopause
- TSH testing to rule out thyroid disorders that can mimic perimenopausal symptoms
- Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) may be ordered in some cases
- Complete blood count and comprehensive metabolic panel may be ordered to assess overall health, but are not specific for perimenopause diagnosis It's crucial to interpret these test results in the context of clinical symptoms like irregular periods, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood changes, as hormone levels fluctuate significantly during perimenopause, and a single test may not be definitive 1. Multiple tests over time provide more reliable information, and laboratory testing serves primarily to support the clinical diagnosis rather than being the sole diagnostic tool.