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Results of blood test for FSH levels

Selous
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Hi, I'm a 56 year old female diagnosed with breast cancer, and not taking HRT.

I have received the results of a blood test to see FSH levels. The test was done to see if I was peri or post menopausal ahead of a decision whether to request a Oncotype DX test. I had a  uterine ablation 7 years ago, so cannot use periods as an indicator, nor do I have obvious menopausal symptoms. My breast cancer nurse has reported that the results show high levels of FSH and says " therefore you are either peri or post menopausal". I'm confused ! Aren't estrogen levels significantly lower after menopause? How can I have high estrogen yet be potentially postmenopausal. What has the test revealed if I could be either peri or post?

Would appreciate clarification.

Many thanks.

  • Dear Selous

    Welcome to our online community. My name is Luzia and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line. I am sorry to hear that you have been diagnosed with Breast cancer. Thank you for your question about FSH levels.

    I can understand that it sounds confusing. As a result of lower levels of oestrogen levels, the FSH levels rise. So higher levels of FSH suggest that you are in peri menopause or post menopause depending on the levels. NHS South Tees has some general FSH information as well as reference ranges on their website. You mention that you may need the Oncotype DX test, a type of Tumour Profiling test.

    Before your next appointment, you might find it useful to have a look at questions to ask. People often find it useful to write down their questions. 

    Getting a diagnosis of cancer is often a very emotional time for people. Our online community has a Breast cancer forum which might be a useful way to get support from others who are going through the same difficulties.

    This must be a very difficult time for you. Please call one of our nurses directly if you want to talk over your situation. We may then be able to give you further information.

    Take care,

    Luzia

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

    Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. If you think it may be useful to chat things over in real time, we have our webchat service available 7 days a week 8am-8pm.

    Ref: LzM/SH

  • in reply to Luzia - Macmillan

    Many thanks for such a useful and considered response. This really helped explain things clearly.

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