'menopausal oestrogen level' on blood test

[porolli]

I've just been told this after having blood tests this week. I went to the doctor as I've been going 9ish weeks between periods in last few months and last period was just small amount of brown discharge (sorry if TMI). Also experiencing hair loss and joint pain.
I'm a bit upset by the blood test and have made an appointment to talk it through with GP. In the meantime, can anyone tell me if this is the only 'test' for menopause? Does this result meant that I am definitely 'in' the menopause?
Thanks

[porolli]

oh and I'm only 42, so really wasn't expecting this yet

[MissBoPeep]

Blood tests are used but they will test yout FSH and oestrogen levels. However, these vary wildy during peri meno; you might be meno one day when tested and fertile the next. They really ought to do 2 tests- one on day 3 of your cycle and another after around day 14-16. A single test is useless ( for most women) and you may need it all repeating a few times.
I've friends who have had blood tests and been told they were post meno then went on to have periods for another 1-2 years!