Predicting menopause involves understanding various clinical and biochemical markers that indicate the approaching end of reproductive years. Some of the primary markers include:
Age: Age is the most straightforward predictor. Most women experience menopause between ages 45 and 55. Family History: Genetics play a significant role; knowing the age at which a woman’s mother or sisters experienced menopause can provide clues. Menstrual Cycle Changes: Irregular periods, changes in flow, and skipped cycles can indicate the transition towards menopause. Hormonal Levels: Testing levels of hormones such as Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) can help predict menopause. Elevated FSH and declining AMH levels are indicative of approaching menopause. Ovarian Ultrasound: An ultrasound can assess the number of remaining ovarian follicles, which decline as menopause approaches.
