Women are considered to be postmenopausal when they have not had their period for an entire year. Having your doctor measure your follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) level is another way to see if you are near menopause. FSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland (located at the base of the brain).

How long does postmenopause last?

Postmenopause includes the years following menopause. During this stage, menopausal symptoms tend to subside, but may continue for an average of four to five years. Fortunately, they also decrease in frequency and intensity.

How do you confirm postmenopausal?

Sometimes, elevated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels are measured to confirm menopause. When a woman's FSH blood level is consistently elevated to 30 mIU/mL or higher, and she has not had a menstrual period for a year, it is generally accepted that she has reached menopause.