Have you used a home testing kit for a medical diagnosis?

COVID-19 RATs are an example of these types of tests but we are interested in the many others on the market.

The University of Wollongong is conducting a small study about them and we'd like to hear from you if you have used one or considered using one.

Simply complete a short survey at:
https://uow.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eeodpzn8lgSsAbI

From here, we may invite you to take part in a paid interview.

For more information, contact Dr Patti Shih: pshih@uow.edu.au
 

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What is it?

Menopause is the time in a woman's life when her normal menstrual periods cease and a woman's ovaries, the organs that produce eggs, stop making female hormones. Menopause occurs at an average age of about 50, but the usual range is anytime in the late 40s to the early 50s. It can occur much earlier (40 or even 35) or be delayed (55 or even later).

Two important hormones, oestradiol and progesterone, are made by the ovaries (the organs that produce eggs) in a cyclical fashion and help to maintain a normal menstrual cycle. When a woman reaches menopause, cyclical hormone production from the ovaries stops, leading to a cessation in monthly menstrual periods and of egg production.

The menopausal change is slow and usually takes two to five years to complete. During the so-called peri-menopausal period, hormone levels can fluctuate from high to low and from one month to the next. Some months a woman may have a period but then go for several months without a period. It is important to note that during this time, a woman may still be able to get pregnant. Menopause is said to have taken place when a woman has not had a period for 12 months.

Menopause happens naturally as a woman ages. However, menopause can also occur for other reasons, including the removal of the ovaries for cancer or other medical reasons like endometriosis.


Last Review Date: April 28, 2023


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