What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause means “around menopause” and refers to the time when the female body makes the natural transition to menopause (the final menstrual period). The average age of menopause is 51 years, so generally women start the transition phase (perimenopause) in their 40s, but some women may experience symptoms as early as their mid-30s. Perimenopause may last for 4 to 8 years, beginning with changes in the length of time between periods and ending one year after the final menstrual period.

Many women do not experience any symptoms aside from irregular menstrual periods that stop when menopause is reached. Others suffer from hot flashes, night sweats, interrupted sleep, mood changes, and thinning and drying of vaginal tissue.

Why consider this test?

This test is targeted towards women who are around the age of perimenopause, and may be experiencing some of the common symptoms (e.g. hot flashes and interrupted sleep). Various factors influence the age of perimenopause, including genetics and smoking status.

This test provides an analysis of three key hormones that change at perimenopause. Results from this test can be used in conjunction with other factors (e.g. medical history and symptoms) to determine if a woman has reached perimenopause. It provides women with a better understanding of the natural hormonal changes that can influence so many different symptoms.

Symptoms associated with perimenopause

Irregular periods

Fatigue

Hot flashes

Unexplained weight gain or trouble losing weight

Lack of concentration

Night sweats

Low sex drive

Bloating

Headaches

Symptoms associated with perimenopause

Irregular periods

Fatigue

Hot flashes

Night sweats

Low sex drive

Lack of concentration

Bloating

Headaches

Unexplained weight gain or trouble losing weight

What’s included in the Perimenopause Test?

Estradiol
Estradiol is the main female sex hormone, with a primary role in the maturity and maintenance of the reproductive system. It is also responsible for the development of secondary female sexual characteristics, cholesterol regulation, skin health, and protection from bone loss.

During perimenopause, estradiol levels gradually decrease, although often in an irregular fashion. Fluctuating estradiol levels contribute to many of the symptoms associated with perimenopause.

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
FSH stimulates the development of the follicle (which houses the egg) during the first half of the menstrual cycle. At mid cycle, FSH together with luteinizing hormone (LH) stimulates the release of one mature egg during ovulation.

FSH levels fluctuate during each menstrual cycle in women of reproductive age, gradually increasing with age, with a significant increase occurring during perimenopause.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
LH is released by the pituitary gland and plays a role in ovulation (the release of a mature egg from the ovary). LH peaks mid menstrual cycle and triggers the release of the egg, as well as the development of the corpus luteum, which goes on to produce progesterone necessary to maintain a pregnancy.

Basal LH levels increase during perimenopause, although not to the same extent as FSH elevations.

How It Works

Step 1. Order your test.

Choose the test that matches your need from our large array of tests. The kit will be delivered to your doorstep. There is no need to leave the comfort of your home.

Step 2. Collect your sample.

Collect your sample using the included instructions. Return your sample using the prepaid, pre-addressed packaging provided.

Step 3. Access your results online

Your sample will be tested as soon as it arrives at our lab. Access your results securely online via TherizonConnect.

Use TherizonConnect to view your test results quickly and easily

Name: Perimenopause Test
SKU: 892|{"X":"1"}
Price: 99.00 USD
Availability: InStock

The results are only available through TherizonConnect, a free, secure patient portal that you can access on your smartphone, tablet, or desktop. You can also share your results with your doctor, family, or friends.

Perimenopause FAQ

Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about this test. Please feel free to contact us if you have any other questions.

More Questions »

Are there medical professionals involved in the process?
All of our tests are developed with advice and input from medical professionals.

When to take this test?
Female reproductive hormone levels fluctuate during your menstrual cycle. For optimum results, please take your samples on the 3rd day of your menstrual cycle (3rd day of your period) and send back to the lab on the same day. If you only have a menstrual cycle 1-3 times a year, or no longer have a menstrual cycle, collect at any time. Your results may be affected if you are taking some medications, particularly hormone therapies. If discontinuing hormone therapy, it is recommended that you wait six weeks before collecting the sample for this test.

Will I receive any guidance with my results?
All result reports will include brief and easy to understand interpretations of each of the biomarkers tested. Background information is also available, but we recommend that you share your test results with your healthcare provider to obtain the most benefit from your test results.

How does the Perimenopause Test work?
Self-collect your sample following the detailed instructions included in the kit. Place your sample in the specimen bag provided and mail it back to the lab using the prepaid envelope inside the kit.

Our lab uses verified and approved chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassays (CMIAs) to accurately measure the three biomarkers included in this test. Your results are available through our online portal as soon as testing is complete.

How accurate is the testing process?
Your samples are processed in the same labs used by primary care providers, hospitals, and government agencies.

Therizon laboratories are CLIA-approved and CAP-accredited, which are the highest levels of accreditation. Tests kits are manufactured within our ISO 17025 accredited facility, the highest level of accreditation for medical devices.

What are my options if I have abnormal results?
It is important to share any abnormal results with you healthcare provider, as they can take into consideration your medical history, any previous test results, physical examinations, and other factors to determine the best treatment option. Many hormonal imbalances are easily treatable.