Facts About Menopause

Menopause

A woman’s body goes through several changes during menopause. Some of the more common symptoms of menopause occur when estrogen levels start to drop. Women may experience:

1. hot flashes;
2. rapid mood swings ranging from depression to euphoria;
3. decreased libido and sex drive;
4. increased frequency or sudden urge to urinate;
5. vaginal dryness with pain during intercourse;
6. excessive bone loss, leading to a higher incidence of fractures of the hip and spinal column;
7. a higher risk for heart disease (because the levels of LDL “bad” cholesterol in the blood may rise).

A woman of menopausal age might have the following laboratory tests ordered:

1. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) test, to learn whether she is approaching or has gone through menopause;

2. Estradiol test, to measure ovarian production of estrogen and to evaluate whether the menstrual cycle is normal and if she is fertile;

3. Thyroid function testing (free T4 and TSH tests) to test the function of the thyroid gland, which can slow with age;

4. Lipid profile, to test for triglycerides and the good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood to assess for cardiovascular disease;

5. Complete blood count (CBC), to determine the adequacy of the number of red and white blood cells in the blood;

6. Chemistry tests for liver and kidney function, to see if she can tolerate hormone replacement therapy; and

7. If a woman has risk factors or symptoms of diabetes, her doctor may also order a glucose test to learn whether the sugar levels in the blood are too high.

Knowing what is going on with your body is the first step in understanding menopause.

To purchase any of the above tests, click on their link where you may simply order online at the LabSafe website at www.LabSafe.com

For more information, or to speak with a member of our professional Medical Staff, call LabSafe toll free at 1-888-333-LABS.