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Menopause

Alternative Names:

Perimenopause; Postmenopause

Symptoms:

The potential symptoms include:

In addition, the long-term effects of menopause include:

Signs and tests:

Blood and urine tests can be used to measure hormone levels that may indicate when a woman is close to menopause or has already gone through menopause. Examples of these tests include:

A pelvic exam may indicate changes in the vaginal lining caused by changes in estrogen levels. A bone density test may be performed to screen for low bone density levels seen with osteoporosis.

References:

Weismiller D. The Perimenopause and Menopause Experience: An Overview. Clin Fam Practice . 2002; 4(1).

Stenchever, MA. Comprehensive Gynecology , 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo:Mosby, Inc.; 2001:1217-1250.

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