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The way we approach menopause is changing. Unlike our mothers and grandmothers, we now have more knowledge of our bodies and more control over our health. This is why more women are turning to at-home menopause tests to better understand which stage of menopause they are in.
Menopause is generally defined as having gone 12 months without a period. However, the process can be confusing. For example, in some cases, after reaching the menopausal age, women may experience minor bleeding in response to events such as receiving a COVID vaccination. This uncertainty is what prompted me to seek further clarity on my own menopausal status.
After consulting with my ob-gyn and receiving an inconclusive diagnosis, I decided to explore other options. I discovered the Clearblue Menopause Stage Indicator test, which promised to provide a definitive answer. The prospect of gaining better insight into my situation was well worth the $20 price tag.
The Clearblue Menopause Stage Indicator test is an easy-to-use home kit. It does not provide immediate results, as it is designed to test levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) five times over 10 days. It also requires the use of the Clearblue ME app to receive your menopause stage analysis.
Before using the kit, the app needs to be set up with basic information like username, birthdate, height, weight, and current hormonal treatment status. The app also contains questions about your menstrual history, which helps determine which stage of menopause you are in.
During the testing phase, you are required to perform the test first thing in the morning using one of the five sticks provided. The results need to be read within a specific time limit of 5 minutes to ensure accuracy.
In my experience, the process took about two weeks from acquiring the test to receiving a final analysis. Each test result indicated a faint second line, adding to my initial feeling of uncertainty. The app ultimately concluded that I was in the postmenopausal stage, which was consistent with my previous “probably menopausal” diagnosis from my doctor.
The Clearblue Menopause Stage Indicator test bridges the gap between traditional diagnostic methods and at-home convenience, providing valuable insights into the menopause process. While it complements the guidance of healthcare professionals, it offers a proactive approach to women’s health and adds a new dimension to home healthcare diagnostics.
