Hormone Testing in Perimenopause and Menopause

The Hormone Testing in Perimenopause and Menopause webinar explores critical changes in hormone levels and provides guidance on testing and treatment strategies for patients during these life stages. Perimenopause and menopause involve fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone, and androgens, along with changes in regulatory proteins like binding globulins, which profoundly affect a woman’s physiology. Understanding these hormonal changes is essential for effective symptom management and overall health.

Understanding Key Hormonal Changes

The webinar begins by examining the primary hormones affected during menopause, focusing on their roles and how they contribute to symptoms such as:

• Estrogen: Impacts mood, bone health, and cardiovascular function.
• Progesterone: Plays a role in sleep, anxiety regulation, and menstrual changes.
• Androgens: Influence libido, energy, and muscle mass.

Testing Hormone Levels

To monitor hormonal changes and support clinical decisions, the webinar covers key testing methods:

• Serum Tests: Useful for assessing baseline hormone levels.
• Saliva Tests: Reflect free, bioavailable hormone levels and diurnal variations.
• Steroidogenic Pathway Enzymes: Evaluate the enzymes involved in hormone production and metabolism.

Exploring Hormone Metabolism

The session also delves into factors influencing hormone metabolism, including:

• Methylation Capacity: Affects the body’s ability to process and eliminate hormones.
• Gilbert’s Syndrome: A condition impacting bilirubin processing, which can influence overall hormone balance.

Practical Strategies for Symptom Management

While the primary focus is on testing, the webinar touches on treatment strategies to help practitioners support their patients effectively. By understanding hormone fluctuations and metabolic pathways, clinicians can develop personalised approaches to managing symptoms and promoting long-term health.