Menopause Resources: Getting Started
Our team includes Menopause Society Certified Practitioners and menopause-aware providers, who can help you manage menopause effectively. We offer many options, including lifestyle tips and strategies, hormone and non-hormone therapies, natural remedies, and medical treatments to support your well-being and help you navigate this transition with confidence and comfort. Some of our clinics offer nutrition consults with a licensed dietician. As you explore your health care provider options, consider certifications and experience, and working with someone who listens to you. We encourage you prepare a list of questions before you meet with your provider.
Menopause and Perimenopause Services
Every person experiences the transition to menopause differently, and to varying degrees. That’s why we offer a personalized approach to your care. We offer many options that include:
- Lifestyle tips and strategies
- Hormone therapies
- Non-hormone therapies
- Nutrition consults
- Weight management resources
- Physical therapy and exercise prescription
About Menopause
Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, though it can happen earlier or later for many women (the average age in the U.S. being around 51). Menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. This change of life is characterized by hormonal changes and can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, sleep disturbances, loss of interest in sex, painful sex, muscle and join concerns, and more.
Typical Stages of Menopause
Perimenopause
This transitional phase can begin several years before menopause. Hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, fluctuate, leading to irregular periods and symptoms. Common symptoms can include but aren’t limited to hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and changes in your period. Symptoms vary person to person.
Menopause
When you haven’t had a period 12 consecutive months you’re generally considered to be in menopause. Your ovaries stop releasing eggs, and hormones such as estrogen and progesterone decline significantly.
Post-menopause
This stage follows menopause and lasts for the rest of a woman’s life. Symptoms may persist or gradually ease, but the risk of health conditions such as osteoporosis and heart disease may increase due to lower estrogen levels.
Wherever you are in your journey, we encourage you to use us as a resource, and ask questions.
Common Symptoms of Menopause
There are many symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause, and everyone experiences them differently. That’s why a customized approach to YOU is most important. Here are just a few common symptoms.
Physical Symptoms
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Discomfort during sex
- Disturbed sleep
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Joint and muscle aches
- Hair thinning
- Dry skin, itching
Emotional Symptoms
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Brain fog, or inability to concentrate
Management and Treatment Options
Lifestyle Changes
- Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
- Get regular exercise (weight-bearing and cardiovascular activities)
- Manage stress. Walks in nature, yoga, or anything that relaxes you counts
- Limit caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods to reduce hot flashes
*Some of our clinics offer nutrition consults with a licensed dietician. Most insurances accepted.
Hormone Therapy (HT)
Hormone therapy can help relieve symptoms by replacing estrogen and progesterone. These medications come with benefits and risks, and we invite you to talk with our team about what’s right for you.
Non-Hormonal Therapies
- Veozah, a non-hormonal medication for night sweats and hot flashes
- Antidepressants for mood swings and hot flashes
- Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants for dryness
- Nutrition; consult with our dietician to learn more
- Supplements; consult our team before use
Other Medical Treatments
- Prescription medications for osteoporosis prevention
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for emotional symptoms
Consult your provider if menopause symptoms significantly impact daily life, if bleeding occurs after menopause, or if there are concerns about bone health, heart health, or mental well-being.