Suggested medical tests to deal with perimenopause
Mammogram. This simple test, similar to an X-ray, is used to detect lumps or other abnormalities in the breasts. Getting a baseline mammogram is particularly important if you have cystic breasts. You should repeat the mammograms every one to two years until age 50; after that, get one every year.
Breast exam. Even if you do regular self-exams, it’s important to have your doctor perform a breast exam. This should be done yearly.
Pap smear. This is also an annual test. It’s important to keep up with Pap tests, since certain symptoms of perimenopause are early signs of possible cervical cancer, fibroids, ovarian cysts or other conditions.
Fecal occult blood test. If you’re age 40 or over, you should have this test yearly for early detection of possible colon cancer.
Cholesterol measurements. Depending on your family history, you should have cholesterol checked either yearly or every two years.
FSH test. This blood test measures Follicle Stimulating Hormone. It should be repeated when you show any symptoms of perimenopause. Though there is much disagreement as to whether or not FSH test prove perimenopause conclusively, the results of the test can be a guide for your doctor in determining where you stand.
Electrocardiogram (EKG). Once you have a baseline test on file, doctors usually recommend doing an EKG every year or two after age 45.
Bone density test. It’s not necessary for every woman to have this test in their 30s. But if you have a history of osteoporosis in your family or if you have small bones or fair skin, this test could be helpful to you
