Where is your office located?
My practice is now completely virtual. In most cases, two or three appointments a few weeks apart are needed to evaluate your symptoms and start you on bioidentical hormones. After that, usually yearly appointments to refill the hormones are all that are needed. Occasionally, more appointments are needed for adjustments of the hormone dose or other minor concerns.
What is menopausal medicine?
Menopausal medicine is a medical specialty which focuses on women going through menopause. The official accrediting body of menopause practitioners is the North American Menopause Society (NAMS). Their website is menopause.org. To be certified as a menopause clinician (NCMP), you must have adequate credentials and pass a detailed examination.
What if I need a pelvic exam or other tests?
In general, all women should see their doctor for an annual exam, mammogram and pelvic exam, if indicated. If I feel that you need a pelvic exam or other testing related to menopause or your hormones at any point, I will suggest that you see your own primary care provider or gynecologist for that purpose. If necessary, I can recommend someone for you to see.
What are bioidentical hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are hormones which are exactly the same as the hormones your ovaries have been producing from the time of puberty until menopause. They are generally manufactured from soy or yams, and are provided by compounding pharmacists. In general, I prescribe them in a topical cream for safety and convenience and ease of dosing.
How do I find a compounding pharmacy?
There are several accredited compounding pharmacies that I recommend, depending on where you live, although most can mail your prescription to you.
Why can’t I just use certain herbs, or other “over the counter” products?
The simple answer is that they don’t work. Your body has stopped producing estradiol, and that’s what you need-for many reasons. Even if you have minimal symptoms, other changes are taking place in your body, like vaginal dryness, decreased libido and decreased bone density, to name a few.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes.
Do i need a referral?
Generally no, although your insurance carrier may require one in order to pay for your visit.
When does menopause end?
Menopausal symptoms generally don’t last forever, but the residual effects of lack of estrogen, like osteoporosis, increased arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), vaginal wall thinning and brain changes, among others, last forever.