From the Research
During menopause, Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) levels typically rise above 30 mIU/mL and often reach levels between 40-250 mIU/mL. This significant elevation occurs as a response to declining ovarian function and reduced estrogen production. As the ovaries become less responsive to FSH stimulation, the body's negative feedback system triggers the pituitary gland to release increasingly higher amounts of FSH in an attempt to stimulate follicular development.
The diagnosis of menopause is confirmed by follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, and according to a study published in the Journal of mid-life health 1, the diagnosis of menopause is confirmed by FSH levels >40 IU/L. However, it's essential to consider that FSH levels can fluctuate considerably during perimenopause, so multiple measurements may be necessary for accurate assessment, as noted in a study published in Endocrine practice 2.
Some studies suggest that FSH alone is not an effective predictor of transition into the perimenopausal or postmenopausal period 2, and that serum FSH is of little diagnostic value in the assessment of menopausal status, which can currently be made only on clinical grounds 3. Nevertheless, sustained FSH levels above 30 mIU/mL for at least two measurements taken 4-6 weeks apart, along with the absence of menstruation for 12 consecutive months, confirming menopausal status.
Key points to consider:
- FSH levels rise above 30 mIU/mL during menopause
- FSH levels often reach levels between 40-250 mIU/mL
- Multiple measurements may be necessary for accurate assessment due to fluctuations during perimenopause
- FSH levels are not the only factor in determining menopausal status, and clinical grounds should also be considered.
It's also worth noting that more recent studies, such as the one published in Cureus 4, provide a comprehensive overview of the menopausal transition, including the role of FSH, but do not specifically address the typical levels of FSH during menopause. However, the study published in Best practice & research 5 provides context on the current recommendations for hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women, which may be relevant in the management of menopausal symptoms.