From hot flashes and hormonal changes to vaginal dryness and painful sex.
You’ve reached the prime of your life, and we want you to feel your best. Menopause is a natural stage that can bring both challenges and opportunities for renewed wellness. From hot flashes and hormonal changes to vaginal dryness and painful sex, the healthcare team at HerMD is here to support you with compassionate, evidence-based care.
What is Menopause?
Menopause marks the beginning of the non-reproductive years and is defined by the absence of a menstrual cycle or any bleeding for 12 consecutive months. If bleeding occurs before the 12 months are complete, the countdown resets. The average age of menopause is 52.
At HerMD, we recognize that waiting 12 months to confirm menopause is a diagnostic standard, but this standard doesn’t prevent starting symptom management or protecting long-term health sooner. Early intervention, including hormone therapy when appropriate, can help safeguard bone health, cognitive function, and cardiovascular health. This approach ensures timely support for symptom management while supporting long-term health outcomes.
Menopause may occur naturally or may be medically induced.
- Natural menopause happens when the menstrual cycle stops for 12 months in the absence of other causes. For patients without a uterus, or those with an IUD, endometrial ablation, or other interventions affecting menstrual flow, menopause may be diagnosed based on blood work rather than the standard 12 consecutive months without menstruation.
- Medically induced menopause can occur due to surgical removal of the ovaries, the effects of chemotherapy or radiation, or the use of certain medications.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transition phase that occurs before menopause. It can start up to 10 years before menopause, with most women entering this phase in their 40s, though some may begin in their 30s. Hormonal fluctuations during this time may lead to symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes, mood changes, and vaginal dryness.
Common Menopause Symptoms and Conditions
Menopause impacts many aspects of health and well-being. At HerMD, we commonly address:
- Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)
- Urinary incontinence
- Vaginal dryness
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Painful sex
- Skincare concerns
- Hair loss
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood shifts
- Weight fluctuations
- Bone health concerns (osteopenia, osteoporosis)
- Routine cancer screenings (breast, cervical, and other medically-appropriate screenings)
- Heart health and metabolic changes
- Fatigue and low energy
- Changes in sexual desire
During perimenopause, you may begin to notice some of these symptoms or changes. At HerMD, we’re here to provide the appropriate treatments and support, so you don’t have to just “grin and bear” the symptoms or changes during this transition.
Treatment Options at HerMD
The HerMD team offers personalized, evidence-based care plans that address the wide range of menopause and perimenopause symptoms. Treatment options may include:
- Hormone therapy (HT) for appropriate candidates
- Non-hormonal medications
- Lifestyle recommendations focused on nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management
- Helpful tools and products, including technology, apps, moisturizers, lubricants, and sexual wellness devices
- Pelvic floor physical therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Supportive counseling and wellness strategies
Whether you’re managing symptoms related to menopause, sexual health, or hormonal changes, HerMD Pharmacy ensures that the treatments you need are convenient, evidence-based, and tailored to your needs.
Our Commitment to Menopause Care
Menopause is not an end, but a new beginning. With the right care, patients can continue to thrive, and even make this one of the best phases of their lives. At HerMD, our mission is to empower you to feel your best by offering comprehensive, personalized solutions for your menopause journey.