Menopause & Perimenopause
Our leading gynecologists in New York are here to care for you. Every woman is unique, and her healthcare should be too. Our gynecology team is dedicated to delivering personalized, comprehensive gynecologic care, taking the time to understand your medical history, concerns, and future goals.
What Is Menopause & Perimenopause?
Menopause is a natural life stage that signifies the end of menstrual cycles. Over time, your ovaries will stop releasing eggs each month, leading to the end of menstruation. Once you have gone 12 consecutive months without a period, you have reached menopause. Symptoms may persist into postmenopause but typically decrease in frequency and intensity over time.
The transition leading up to menopause, known as perimenopause or the menopausal transition, usually starts in the 40s or 50s and can extend into postmenopause. This phase brings physiological symptoms that vary from woman to woman.
During this transition, your reproductive cycle gradually slows down, leading to hormonal fluctuations and endocrine changes. Your ovaries produce less estrogen and progesterone—the hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle and ovulation.
As your body adapts to this decline, you may experience significant changes in your menstrual cycle, including irregular or skipped periods, along with the following common symptoms:
Hot flashes
Night sweats
Vaginal dryness
Decreased libido
Weight gain & slowed metabolism
Thinning hair & dry skin
Joint pain & muscle aches
Mood swings
Depression
Fatigue
Insomnia or sleep disturbances
Headaches or migraines
These symptoms can vary in severity and duration, with some lasting several years into postmenopause. Lifestyle changes, hormone therapy, and other treatments can help manage them.
What Are the Treatments and Therapies for Menopause and Perimenopause?
Treatment for menopause and perimenopause focuses on managing symptoms and improving overall well-being. Options range from hormonal therapies to lifestyle changes and alternative treatments based on symptom severity and personal health history.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a treatment used to manage menopausal symptoms by supplementing the hormones that naturally decline during menopause. It can help relieve hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and other discomforts. HRT is available in various forms, including pills, patches, rings, gels, creams, and sprays applied to the skin or inserted vaginally. However, it carries potential risks, such as an increased likelihood of heart disease or breast cancer. To minimize these risks, doctors typically prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
For those who cannot or prefer not to use hormone therapy. There are non-hormonal medications such as:
Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs): Help with hot flashes and mood swings. (e.g., Venlafaxine, Paroxetine)
Gabapentin: A nerve pain medication that also reduces hot flashes.
NK3 antagonist Fezolinetant: a non hormonal medication that relieves hot flashes and night sweats.
Lifestyle and diet can also help alleviate symptoms. One may make dietary adjustments—such as, eating foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3s. Reduce caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods to minimize hot flashes, and maintain a balanced diet of lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Exercise and stress management are also key factors for easing perimenopause and menopause symptoms.
The best approach depends on your symptoms, medical history, and personal preferences. Consulting with a WBM gynecologist can help determine the safest and most effective option for you.
How Can Well by Messer Help You with Menopause and Perimenopause?
At Well By Messer, our doctors are committed to providing a thorough evaluation and treatment. Led by board-certified endocrinologist Dr. Caroline Messer, we provide personalized treatment plans to manage and alleviate symptoms associated with these transitional phases. Our gynecologist, Dr. Alyssa Dweck, a certified menopause provider, focuses on gynecology, menopause, and sexual health. She offers specialized care for women experiencing hormonal changes. We are not your typical health care provider: at Well By Messer, we provide a holistic approach to treat discomforts caused by perimenopause and menopause.
Meet the Well by Messer (WBM) Team
Under the leadership of top endocrinologist in New York, Dr. Caroline Messer, our caring and talented team of board-certified endocrinologists, gynecologists, psychologists, nutritionists, and personal trainers will be dedicated to supporting your success at our metabolic centers in Manhattan.
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