Perimenopause test

Hormone levels can fluctuate during the menopause transition, so a single blood result may not reflect what is happening over time. A clinician may ask when your periods changed, whether you have hot flushes or night sweats, how sleep and mood are affected, and which medicines or contraceptives you use. Tests may be considered when symptoms are unusual, when another condition needs checking, or when pregnancy, thyroid disease, anaemia or other explanations need assessment. Hormonal contraception can also alter bleeding and affect how symptoms are interpreted.

Record period dates, bleeding changes, symptoms, sleep, medicines and contraception before your visit. Bring any home test results, but treat them as one piece of information rather than a diagnosis. Do not stop prescribed contraception or hormone medicine to obtain a test without medical advice. A clinician can explain whether examination, blood tests or another evaluation fits your situation.

Book an appointment for new or disruptive symptoms, bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, or bleeding that is unusually heavy. Seek prompt care for severe pelvic pain, fainting, shortness of breath, or bleeding that makes you feel weak or unwell. If pregnancy is possible, take appropriate pregnancy advice rather than assuming a missed period is perimenopause.

Ask whether your pattern fits [Perimenopause](/conditions/perimenopause/), whether testing would change management, and which alternative causes should be checked. You can also ask how to manage [heavy periods](/symptoms/heavy-periods/) or [hot flushes](/symptoms/hot-flushes/).