Menopause
Patient Education

Patient Guide

What to Expect - Patient Education Guide

The signs and symptoms of menopause are enough to tell most women they have begun going through the menopausal transition. If you have concerns about irregular periods or hot flashes, talk with your doctor.

In some cases further evaluation may be recommended. Learn more in this patient education guide.

Test	Why Test?	What Happens?	What is Normal/Abnormal?
Blood Test	Tests the level of FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) which helps to evaluate an irregular vs. missing menstrual period.	Blood is drawn from vein of forearm or arm.	Past menopause level � 14 to 52 IU/L
Pelvic Exam	Risk of cancer increases with age, so regular pelvic exam is necessary.	Performed by gynecologists and regular physical check up is done for ovary, fallopian tube, uterus, cervix	Any abnormalities, like tumors or tenderness, can be detected and further tests can be ordered by doctor.
Bone Mineral Density Test (Bone Densitometry)	There is a direct relationship between the lack of estrogen after menopause and osteoporosis.	Usually the lumbar spine (lower back) and hips are examined using a low-dose X-ray machine called a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan.	The density of bone is observed and compared with soft tissues, and also helps to predict risk of fracture.
Breast Self Exam and Mammogram	Risk of breast cancer increases with age.	Mammogram is performed by placing the breast between two clear plates to take an image.	Mammograms detect cysts and breast tumors. A self exam can help diagnose any early changes in the breast.