I'm 44 and 16 days late. I do not know if I am pregnant or perimenopausal. I am very regular with no prior signs of perimenopause. I had one positive test from dollar store test and one negative from First Response test. I'm confused.

Hello Anonymous,

It is understandable that you would be confused. I would trust the First Response test results.

It is possible that you are just beginning perimenopause. All of the symptoms do not come on at once. As you may know, perimenopause results because of the fluctuations in estrogen levels. Menstrual irregularity is one of the early sings and can sometimes begins when you are in your 40s.

The second thought that I want to share with you is the timing of taking the pregnancy test. For the most accurate results, you must test with the first urine sample of the morning. The hCG hormone which is produced by the cells that form the placenta can be detected in urine about 12 to 14 days following conception.

If you have taken the First Response test as directed and not too early, but are still confused, call and make an appointment with your gynecologist.
A blood pregnancy test is more accurate.

No one test or sign is enough to determine if you've entered perimenopause.
But, your physician may order test to check your hormone levels, including thyroid function.

I hope this information is helpful.

Maryann