🩺 Do You Really Need to Check Your Hormone Levels to Know If You're in Menopause?

Feeling off but not sure why? You’re not alone. Perimenopause often begins with subtle shifts that don’t always show up in labs—but your body knows.

When hot flashes, mood swings, or period changes hit, one of the first questions many women ask is:“Should I get my hormones checked to see if I’m in perimenopause or menopause?”

It’s a great question—and the answer isn’t always straightforward.

Let’s break it down.

💡 Why Hormone Testing Isn’t Always Necessary

During perimenopause, your hormones can swing dramatically from day to day. That means a single lab draw might capture a high point, a low point, or something in between. And that number might not reflect what’s actually happening in your body.

That’s why symptoms and period history are key.Here are some signs that you’re likely in perimenopause or menopause:

• Irregular or skipped periods

• Hot flashes or night sweats

• Mood changes or irritability

• Difficulty sleeping

• Brain fog or forgetfulness

• Vaginal dryness or discomfort

• New or increased anxiety

  
  

If you’re experiencing a combination of these, you’re likely in the menopausal transition—even if your labs don’t “prove” it.

🧪 When Hormone Testing Can Be Helpful

That said, there are times when lab tests provide important insight.

Lab testing may be beneficial in these situations:

• Your periods have stopped, but your ovaries are still intact.

  Lab work (especially FSH and estradiol) can confirm whether you’re in menopause.

  
  

• You’re under age 45 and having symptoms.

  In these cases, we want to rule out premature or early menopause.

  
  

• Your symptoms are confusing or overlap with other conditions.

  For example, symptoms like fatigue, mood changes, or weight gain could stem from thyroid dysfunction, not hormones—so checking TSH, prolactin, and sometimes testosterone can be helpful.

  
  

In those moments, labs aren’t just numbers—they’re tools to help us connect the dots.

🩺 Clinical Approach: Symptoms First, Labs Second

Taking a full-body approach is so important during this time. Keep a log of:

• Your symptoms

• Your medical and menstrual history

• Your lifestyle and stress levels

• And, when needed, your lab work

  
  

Every woman’s journey through midlife is different. That’s why your care should be tailored to what you need—not just what a test result says.

👩🏽‍⚕️ So, Should You Get Your Hormones Checked?

Maybe. But don’t let a lab test be the only thing that determines whether your symptoms are “real” or “valid.”

You know your body.You deserve to feel heard.And you deserve care that looks at the full picture—not just a lab slip.

💬 If you’re feeling stuck in the in-between of not-quite-menopause but not-quite-your-old-self… you’re not alone.

I’m here to help you feel more informed, empowered, and confident in your care.

🧠 Want more practical, evidence-based tips like this?Follow along on Instagram and check out my new YouTube channels (full videos coming soon!) for weekly support tailored to busy women navigating midlife health.