Can this be menopause?

Hello,

I will be 40 in a few months.  We have been trying to get pregnant for some time now.  Until recently my period was very regular.  But I lost my mom late last year and emotionally it has been a hard year for me.  For the 1st time ever my period got out of wack.  May, June, July & August were just about non existent for me-very light spotting of just a light day of two of bleeding (I'm usually a heavy bleeder).  My period resumed normal again from September until current.  I have had the paperwork for the FSH test since early this year and decided to do it this month.  I had the blood drawn on the 2nd day of my period.  I was prepared to complete the process (the pills for 5 days then redraw blood on the 10th day) but was surprised when the doctor called and told me my FSH level was 19.2 and she referred me to a fertility clinic.  I have been unable to make that call.  I have done some homework and am just wondering if it is a bit premature to go the infertility route.  More than one resource suggests that FSH can fluctuate and I should test more than just one month to see if the level is different-perhaps even try on the 3rd day of my period instead?  Also, could my emotional state impact what's happening?  Some even suggest there are herbs/supplements that may help FSH levels.  Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!!  

[Machelle Seibel, MD]

I'm sorry to hear of your loss. Losing a parent is very sad and combined with trying to have a child at the same time is a particularly difficult emotional experience. It is difficult for even the strongest individuals.

At age 40 you should go to a fertility expert immediately and not wait. It is much harder to conceive after 40 even if you have a good FSH level and regular periods. Just like there are few professional athletes by age 40, the body is also less efficient reproductively and there are less pregnancies at that age as well.

Getting into stress reduction and getting mental health assistance can be very beneficial. It can be very draining to go through fertility testing and very frustrating. And even those who succeed often need time to accomplish their goals. Make the call soon.
Best of luck,
Machelle M. Seibel, MD

[KD39]

Thank you so much for your reply.  I really appreciate it.