How is peri diagnosed?

[Theforest]

So....

50
Irregular periods over last 3 years
No period since September
Joint pain
Pins and needles
Muscle pain
Fuzzy feeling
Forgets words
Heart palpitations
No libido

If I speak to GP do they test for peri, test for causes or do they just assume it is? Just don't want them to miss any other possible cause of these symptoms. Already B12 deficient and get injections.

Thanks

At 50 they will presume you are menopausal as your last period was Sept. Everything sounds like textbook menopause.

You can either see how you go or do an econsult/book a face to face and try hrt if the effects of depleted oestrogen become intolerable.

They may do routine bloods to rule out other issues like thyroid problems etc if you request them.

Diagnosis should be based on symptoms alone. Blood tests may be useful in eliminating other issues such as thyroid, B12 as you say, iron, vitamin D.

You need to go a whole year without a period to be at menopause. Perimenopause is the period leading up to menopause - up to 10 years - so it's fairly obvious you are in this stage of things.

Ok thanks. I will contact the GP and ask for a blood test.