Blood Tests

All You Need to Know about Blood Tests

Blood tests are essential diagnostic tools that provide valuable insight into your overall health. They help to detect a range of conditions, monitor ongoing treatments, and assess the function of organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys. According to  NICE guidelines, a diagnosis of perimenopause or menopause in women over 45 does not require blood tests. However, the tests can offer valuable insight into the individual’s overall health and undetected conditions.

Types of Blood Tests

Selecting the right blood tests depends on your specific symptoms and health needs. Our team of experts will guide you through options like hormone panels, thyroid function or vitamin D levels to help support your well-being during this life stage.

At Menoclinic, our specialized blood tests are designed to provide a clear picture of your hormonal health during perimenopause and menopause. These tests help assess key hormone levels, such as oestrogen, progesterone, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), alongside vital health markers like thyroid function, vitamin D, and iron levels. With these insights, we can tailor a treatment plan to alleviate symptoms and support your overall well-being. Our tests are simple and effective, and provide the answers you need to navigate this important phase of life with confidence

Women under the age of 45 years

The essential blood test required is Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) to determine hormonal levels. Two blood tests will be required approximately 4 to 6 weeks apart

To ensure a thorough assessment, we strongly advise considering our Well Woman Test.  This comprehensive screening rules out other conditions by examining a wide range of health markers and assesses key health functions.

Polycystic Ovaries Syndrome (PCOS)

Is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age.  While some women may be asymptomatic, others experience various symptoms:

• Irregular periods or no period
• Excessive hair growth
• Difficulty getting pregnant
• Thinning of hair or hair loss
• Weight gain
• Oliy skin or acne
• Mood changes

Many women with PCOS, may not show symptoms, so taking a blood test is crucial for diagnosis and management. These tests typically measure hormone levels, including testosterone, LH, FSH and insulin.

Women over the age of 45 years

While blood tests are not essential for the diagnosis, treatment or managing perimenopause or menopause, they are recommended based on your specific symptoms. These tests help rule out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms. In such cases, we typically suggest the following blood tests:

1. Well Woman Test: A comprehensive health screening to assess overall well-being.

2. Female Hormone Health Check: Measures levels of key hormones involved in the menopause transition.

3. Advanced Thyroid Function Test:  Evaluates thyroid health, as thyroid issues can mimic menopause symptoms.

These tests provide valuable insights, allowing us to tailor your treatment plan effectively and ensure we’re addressing the root cause of your symptoms.

All our blood tests come in convenient self-test home kits, allowing you to collect samples in the comfort of your own home at your own pace.

Testosterone Plus Blood Tests

Testosterone plays a crucial role in women’s health, even during menopause. A comprehensive blood test can assess testosterone levels, helping to determine if replacement therapy is necessary. This test measures both total and free testosterone, as well as related hormones like SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin). Low testosterone in perimenopausal or menopausal women may contribute to decreased libido, fatigue, muscle weakness, and mood changes. The blood test results, combined with a thorough evaluation of symptoms, allow our team of experts to make informed decisions about testosterone replacement therapy. Regular monitoring through blood tests ensures optimal hormone levels and helps manage potential side effects.

Osteoporosis Blood Tests.

During menopause, women are at increased risk of osteoporosis due to declining oestrogen levels. A crucial blood test for assessing bone health is the vitamin D test. Vitamin D plays a vital role in calcium absorption and bone metabolism.  Low levels can contribute to bone loss and increased fracture risk.

Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels through diet, sunlight exposure or supplements is essential for bone health. The Vitamin D Blood Test can help guide treatment strategies, including lifestyle modifications and potential interventions to prevent or manage osteoporosis during menopause.