How can you check if you're perimenopausal?

There's no single definitive test, but a comprehensive hormone panel gives a meaningful picture. Key markers include estradiol, FSH, LH, progesterone, SHBG, and thyroid function (TSH and fT4). The timing of the test within your cycle matters: testing in the early follicular phase (days 2 to 5) gives the most interpretable baseline. A single FSH result taken at a random point in your cycle is often insufficient on its own, particularly in early perimenopause when hormone levels are fluctuating rather than steadily declining. Your GP or gynecologist can help interpret results in the context of your symptoms and cycle history.