Tests
1st tests to order
prospective symptom diary
Test
If cyclical symptoms are not found, physician should consider other diagnoses such as mood and affective disorders or substance abuse.
Result
symptom predominance in the luteal phase and symptom-free interval between menses
Tests to consider
thyroid function tests
Test
Should be a routine screening test.
Result
normal
follicle-stimulating hormone levels
Test
Indicated if menopause or perimenopause is a differential diagnosis, although interpretation is limited due to variability during the perimenopause.
Result
normal
depression screening
Test
Use of a validated depression screening questionnaire such as the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) Scale, or Beck Depression Inventory can help assess for the presence and severity of symptoms of depression.
Result
may indicate depression
CBC
Test
CBC may be considered if fatigue is a major symptom, especially in women who have heavy menstrual bleeding.
Result
normal (anemia should be corrected)
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