Lay opinion vs evidence: Menopause Test

Menopause tests (e.g., FSH, estradiol) are often marketed as simple decision tools, but the scientific evidence is limited. FSH levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle and are only informative during perimenopause, not for predicting the exact timing of menopause. Many direct-to-consumer tests lack clinical validation and ignore individual factors like age, symptoms, or medical history. Consumer advocacy groups and medical guidelines therefore advise against such tests. Instead, menopause diagnosis should be based on clinical criteria (12 months without menstruation) and physician assessment. Hormone tests are only useful for specific questions (e.g., premature menopause). Bottom line: lay opinions overestimate the benefit; evidence supports medical guidance.