The most common signs and symptoms of early menopause include irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, decreased sex drive, difficulty sleeping, mood changes, and fertility problems. If you experience these symptoms before age 45, it may indicate you are going through early menopause, also called premature ovarian failure or primary ovarian insufficiency.
There are several medical tests that can help diagnose early menopause:
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) blood test - This test measures the level of follicle-stimulating hormone in your blood. High FSH levels indicate your ovaries have stopped normal functioning and egg production. FSH levels above 40 mIU/mL on two tests done several weeks apart signals menopause.
- Estradiol blood test - Testing your estradiol, a form of estrogen, can also help diagnose menopause. Low levels of estradiol are associated with ovarian decline and menopause.
- Antimüllerian hormone (AMH) test - This blood test measures your AMH level, which declines as you approach menopause. AMH levels below 1 ng/mL may indicate low ovarian reserve and proximity to menopause.
- Pelvic ultrasound - A pelvic ultrasound allows your doctor to visualize your reproductive organs. Small ovaries with very few remaining follicles points to onset of menopause.
- Chromosome testing - Genetic testing can check if early menopause is due to Primary Ovarian Insufficiency, which is caused by chromosomal abnormalities in up to 20% of affected women. Turner syndrome involving a missing X chromosome is most common.
If tests confirm premature ovarian failure, further steps typically include:
- Discussing options for egg freezing and fertility preservation, since chances of conception are extremely low after menopause begins
- Starting hormone therapy to relieve menopausal symptoms like hot flashes. Oral contraceptives or low-dose estrogen/progestin patches may be prescribed.
- Monitoring bone health to detect osteoporosis, which is a risk due to low estrogen
- Receiving counseling for psychosocial aspects including increased risk of depression, anxiety, loss of identity
- Checking thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary gland functioning related to hormonal balance
At
Revive Hormone Clinic, we specialize in early menopause and premature ovarian failure for women under 45. Our board-certified physicians and nurses provide comprehensive care including:
- Cutting-edge hormone testing to accurately diagnose early menopause
- Customized hormone therapy plans to reduce symptoms and effects
- Counseling on maintaining emotional health and self-image
- Optimizing bone health to prevent osteoporosis
- Discussing fertility options like egg freezing to preserve chances of conception
We also accept most major insurance plans and are in-network providers with Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare and others.
To learn more or schedule a consultation regarding premature menopause, visit:
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Visit our clinic at 123 Main St, Anytown
Our compassionate women's health experts are here to listen and find solutions for early menopause and premature ovarian failure. Get in touch today to start taking control of your health during this challenging life transition.
