Ulta Lab Tests

Post Menopause Panel

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Estradiol

Estradiol (estradiol-17 beta, E2) is part of an estrogen that is a group of steroids that regulate the menstrual cycle and function as the main female sex hormones. Estrogens are responsible for the development of female sex organs and secondary sex characteristics and are tied to the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. They are considered the main sex hormones in women and are present in small quantities in men. Estradiol (E2) is the predominant form of estrogen and is produced primarily in the ovaries with additional amounts produced by the adrenal glands in women and in the testes and adrenal glands in men. Estradiol levels are used in evaluating ovarian function. Estradiol levels are increased in cases of early (precocious) puberty in girls and gynecomastia in men. Its main use has been in the differential diagnosis of amenorrhea – for example, to determine whether the cause is menopause, pregnancy, or a medical problem. In assisted reproductive technology (ART), serial measurements are used to monitor follicle development in the ovary in the days prior to in vitro fertilization. Estradiol is also sometimes used to monitor menopausal hormone replacement therapy.

Also known as: Follicle Stimulating Hormone, FSH Follicle Stimulating Hormone

Fsh

Also known as: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Thyrotropin

TSH

A TSH test is a lab test that measures the amount of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland. It tells the thyroid gland to make and release thyroid hormones into the blood.

TSH

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The Post Menopause Panel panel contains 3 tests with 4 biomarkers .

The Post Menopause Panel is designed for women who have gone through menopause or are in the transitional phase.

It measures specific reproductive hormone levels that commonly change during this period, helping to identify hormonal imbalances and guide treatment decisions.

It may also be used for health monitoring, evaluating symptoms related to hormonal changes, and assessing risks for certain post-menopausal health conditions.

About the Test: The Post Menopause Panel focuses on evaluating different combinations of hormones, including Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), estradiol, and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). These hormones are known to vary significantly during the menopausal transition phase, which can have broad effects on a woman's health and well-being.

Hormones Tested:

  • Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): A hormone that plays a vital role in the reproductive process. FSH levels usually rise after menopause since there are fewer follicles responding to it.
  • Estradiol: A form of estrogen that decreases during menopause. Low levels can lead to symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes.
  • Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Included to assess thyroid function, as imbalances in thyroid hormones can influence or mimic symptoms of menopause.

Benefits of the Test:

  • Understanding Hormonal Changes: Provides a snapshot of hormonal imbalances that might be contributing to symptoms or health risks.
  • Personalized Treatment Guidance: Helps guide treatment decisions, including hormone replacement therapy.
  • Monitoring Health: Useful in tracking changes over time and monitoring the effect of treatments.
  • Risk Assessment: May help assess risks for conditions more common after menopause, such as osteoporosis or cardiovascular disease.

Signs & Symptoms: If you're experiencing the following signs and symptoms, this panel may be an appropriate choice to assess your hormone levels:

  • Hot flashes or flushes (most common)
  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Insomnia
  • Weight gain or bloating
  • Mood changes
  • Breast tenderness or pain
  • Depression
  • Headaches

Interpretation of Results:

  • Elevated FSH Levels: Often indicate post-menopausal status.
  • Low Estradiol Levels: May confirm menopause and be linked to specific symptoms.
  • Abnormal TSH Levels: This may indicate thyroid dysfunction that needs further evaluation.

Methodology: The test requires a blood sample, which is analyzed in the laboratory to measure the levels of FSH, estradiol, and TSH.

Risks and Considerations:

  • Risks associated with the test are minimal and typically relate to blood sampling (e.g., minor bruising).
  • Interpretation should be made by healthcare providers knowledgeable in women's health, as various factors can influence hormone levels.

Conclusion: The Post Menopause Panel is a comprehensive hormone assessment tool for women in the menopausal transition phase or post-menopause. By measuring FSH, estradiol, and TSH levels, the test provides valuable insights into hormonal changes, guiding personalized treatment plans, monitoring health, and assessing risks for post-menopausal conditions. It serves as an essential part of healthcare for women at this life stage, helping to enhance well-being and prevent or manage chronic conditions.

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