I will be 56 years old next month and I still have not gone through menopause. My periods are definitely irregular; I had a total of 4 periods in 2015. My GYN recently ordered an FSH test which showed no level at 31.6. Other than irregular periods, I have not experienced other menopausal symptoms, like hot flashes. Is menopause near?
You are in perimenopause and menopause is near. With that said, until you go 12 months without a period, we cannot say that you are no longer making any eggs.
The Guinness Book of world records for an unassisted pregnancy and delivery is almost age 58. You are still likely making estrogen, but not enough progesterone, hence the lack of menopausal symptoms and the irregular menses. Lack of enough progesterone can predispose you to uterine hyperplasia and uterine cancer, so I would recommend you visit your physician to discuss office endometrial sampling and/or pelvic ultrasound.
All My Best,
Speaking of Women’s Health nurse
March 9, 2016 at 10:15am