Evaluation of suspected menopause in females >40 years

hCG: human chorionic gonadotropin; TSH: thyroid-stimulating hormone; PRL: prolactin; FSH: follicle-stimulating hormone.

* The diagnosis of perimenopause/menopause in females over age 45 years is clinical and based upon the presence of irregular menses and/or menopausal symptoms. Laboratory evaluation is not necessary or suggested.

¶ In females ages 40 to 45, the presence of irregular menses and hot flashes strongly suggests menopause. However, laboratory evaluation should be performed first to rule out other endocrine disorders.