I just turned 40 years old in February. I'm experiencing a lot of menopausal symptoms, but my bloods have came back normal. Is it still possible that I am Peri-menopausal?

Blood tests are not always accurate and do depend on your hormone levels on the day. If your hormones are in the 'normal range' that day you will get a negative result, even though you are experiencing symptoms!

However, you are still a little on the young side - the average age of starting the approach to the menopause is 45-55, although a small number of women do start earlier.

Did your doctor also test for low thyroid and low iron as both of these can show similar symptoms. If not, it may be an idea to ask just to rule them out.

Stress can also cause very similar symptoms so if this is you it may be a good idea to tackle the stress.

Acupuncture can be very effective both for stress and hormonal changes so it is worth looking into as well.

Eileen Durward