Patient's question:
Menstrual flow has been light for over ten years, and it has almost stopped recently, becoming even less. Is my situation indicating menopause?Doctor's answer:
Irregular menstruation is just a symptom, and the treatment for it first requires identifying the underlying cause. So, how can the cause be found? Women have an endocrine axis: the hypothalamus secretes gonadotropin-releasing hormone to stimulate the ovaries to secrete estrogen and progesterone, which in turn promote the growth and development of follicles. If any one of these steps changes, the corresponding hormone levels will also change. Therefore, for women with irregular menstruation, it is essential to check their hormone levels and ovarian function. The most effective and direct method is to perform electrochemical luminescence hormone six tests (preferably on days 3 to 5 of the menstrual cycle) and vaginal ultrasound.Remember not to use medication blindly, as menstrual-regulating drugs are hormone-based and can affect various aspects of the body. Moreover, for an endocrine system that has not yet been diagnosed, such medication can disrupt it. If there is amenorrhea or severe endocrine dysfunction, it may be necessary to consider performing a pituitary stimulation test.