Medical tests or just get on with life?

[Ginnyreckon]

Name changed for this so I can include some very specific and possibly outing details. Sorry it’s so long.

I was aware my mother and grandmother went into menopause early so was fully expecting it. I am 38 and on the pill. No interest in conceiving now or in the future so reluctant to come off it if I might be fertile. I also really appreciate the regularity it gives. Not sure I’d cope with an unexpected bleed, especially during working hours when I travel a lot, have limited toilet access and am very visible (as opposed to tucked behind a desk).

Having had some symptoms for approximately six months (hair thinning, aches and pains, fatigue, feeling a bit low, lower libido, iffy digestion, bloating and some vaginal dryness) I spoke to my GP about options. I also spoke to mum and she confirmed she was the same age when she started with everything done and dusted before her 40th.

I found the GP initially helpful because I’d assumed I’d be fobbed off with a pack of anti depressants.

I appreciate they can’t test for FSH levels while I’m on the pill so can’t be definitive but I feel like now I’m being dramatically over medicalised when the answer is so obviously perimenopause/menopause. I’ve had half a dozen sorts of scans, numerous blood tests and now I’ve been referred to three different consultants in different departments, none of which are anything to to do with hormones.

I really do appreciate them trying to rule anything more sinister out but it’s like my GP just won’t accept it could be menopause at my age.

Now I’m looking at having a colonoscopy when I only had one 18 months ago plus various biopsies from different sites and it all just feels too much. At the same time I wonder if I reject the tests will I spend the next few years wondering if there is more to it, and if I go back to the doctor in future will refusing the tests/referrals count against me? The last three months of having various scans and tests then waiting for results have also taken a toll. I’m terrible for consulting Dr Google.

Again, sorry this is so long. I’d be really grateful if anyone had any views to share. I’ve tried to speak to friends but most still seem to be actively trying to conceive and with some the issue has been perceived as insensitive to raise.

I'm sorry you aren't making any headway with this.

Did you mean a colonoscopy? On your bowel? How is that connected (or not) to possible peri?

I know the NHS should step up but in all honesty, you could make an appt for around £250 with a private gynaecologist and possibly get much better answers, if you choose someone with expertise in this (and not all have.)

You can take copies of all your tests with you, for them to discuss, and take it from there.

The British Menopause Society has a list of specialists on their website. Most consultants now allow you to self refer without a letter from your GP.

Thank you for the reply. I’m having digestive issues (intermittent bloating, discomfort) plus weight gain which is how the gastric referral and likely colonoscopy have come about.

I’ve had a look at some options for going private with a menopause specialist and it looks like around £500 where I am for initial appointment, follow up and bloods (which aren’t likely to show anything anyway). I am likely to go down that route in any case but my real dilemma is going through all the other tests my GP is recommending at the same time or not (and if I do, how to arrange all the time off being a secondary but still quite fundamental issue).

Lucky men!

And thank you for the tip about the list. The more the better when trying to find something affordable that fits in time-wise.

It's usually around £250-300ish for the first appt (and then less for the 2nd.)
You may not have to have blood tests as they have been done already on the NHS.

You don't have to do what your GP has said if you want to delay any tests, although I can see that for possible bowel issues you might want to press ahead.

When you choose a menopause specialist my advice is to choose someone who is also a consultant gynae, not just a dr who's done some training in menopause.

They are likely just to do some blood tests and your medical and family history. TBH many will possibly consider using hrt as a start to see if you respond.

Have you heard of the Daisy Network? It's a national charity for women with premature and early menopause. Worth having a look at their website as it covers symptoms and diagnosis.