About 80% of women+ are affected by symptoms during perimenopause and menopause!

And some studies show that almost 70% of people with symptoms do not seek medical advice. I think this is really due to a combination of so many factors: fear of being dismissed/ignored (possibly due to previous medical experiences), lack of information about perimenopause and menopause (we’re not really told what to expect!), our society’s habit of telling women+ to “suck it up,” medical professionals’ lack of education around perimenopause and menopause.

So, the avoidance is understandable.

Let’s start a conversation around perimenopause and menopause.

What do the terms “perimenopause” and “menopause” mean?

Medically, “menopause” means the absence of periods for 12 months (not attributed to other causes, like suppressing periods with birth control). Physiologically, this signifies the end of ovulation and the end of our “child-bearing” years. The average age of menopause is 51.

“Perimenopause” encompasses the years surrounding menopause. This tends to start in our mid-40s and signifies a time when hormones are starting to fluctuate. Sometimes people notice symptoms like hot flashes or night sweats.

What are some common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause?

Hot flashes, night sweats, brain fog, difficulty with sleep, vaginal dryness, pain with sexual activity, low libido, frequent urinary tract infections, urinary urgency or frequency, urinary leaking (urge incontinence), dry skin (sometimes people say they have itchy ears!), mood changes (particularly increased anxiety).

What to expect at a perimenopause or menopause consultation:

• Exploration of your personal, family, social, and medical history.

• In depth discussion around your bleeding/menstrual history (if applicable).

• In depth discussion around any symptoms you’ve noticed that may be related to perimenopause or menopause.

• Review of available treatment options, such as lifestyle changes, hormone therapy, medications, supplements, etc.

• Possible recommendations for blood tests.

If you are currently suffering from period-changes (irregular bleeding, heavy and/or painful bleeding), symptoms or perimenopause or menopause, please schedule an appointment with me so we can discuss your experience in depth!

I commonly hear people are told “it’s just part of life,” “you are just going through menopause,” and they’re not offered any intervention or relief. Know that you don’t just have to “suffer through” perimenopause and menopause. Let’s talk about your options together.