What laboratory values are suggestive of menopause?

In the context of menopause, an increase in serum FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) is typically observed. Menopause is characterized by the cessation of ovarian function, which leads to a decrease in estrogen production by the ovaries. As estrogen levels drop, the negative feedback on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland is lost, resulting in an increase in gonadotropin levels, specifically FSH. This is because the pituitary gland attempts to stimulate the ovaries to produce more estrogen, which is no longer being effectively produced due to the depletion of ovarian follicles.

During menopause, estradiol levels significantly decrease, so an increase in serum estradiol would not be consistent with this phase. Instead, normal serum progesterone levels would suggest an ovulatory cycle, which would not be the case in menopause as ovulation ceases. Decreased serum FSH is also atypical because, during menopause, the body compensates for low estrogen by producing more FSH.

Thus, the identification of increased serum FSH is a hallmark laboratory finding that supports a diagnosis of menopause.