Menopause is a natural and inevitable part of aging for women, yet it’s often misunderstood or simply not talked about enough.
Menopause is defined by the final menstrual period of a woman and confirmed after one year of no menstrual bleeding. It marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years and represents the permanent end of menses, or periods, resulting from loss of ovarian follicular function, typically due to aging. Menopause normally occurs between the ages of 40 and 58 years of age.
While every woman will experience menopause, it does not exactly come with a user’s manual. It is typically only talked about when discussing the symptoms. These symptoms are due to estrogen deficiency and can include hot flashes, mood changes, sleep disturbances, increased weight, sexual dysfunction, changes to hair and skin, and many more.
“Menopause health is mental, physical, and sexual,” said Tia Welsh, MD, Chair of Women Services for Valley Medical Group. “Many women cope with their symptoms, but there is treatment and support during this time. You are not alone.”
The Menopause Society offers a competency examination for healthcare professionals who seek to become credentialed in menopause and midlife women’s health. Valley Medical Group is proud to have four physicians on staff who are Menopause Society Certified Practitioners (MSCP).
“Any MSCP is aware of the challenges of menopause and helps to provide patients with the tools and information needed to get the highest quality of care through the menopause transition and beyond. This ultimately leads to improving women's midlife health and their healthcare experience,” said David Garfinkel, MD, a Valley obstetrician and gynecologist and MSCP.
Valley’s MSCPs are dedicated to looking at women in different stages of their life continuum. They also work closely with the patient’s cardiologist, medical oncologist, nutritionist, metabolic weight loss and endocrinology specialist, or sleep center physician to ensure that the patient is heard and cared for. The team works with you to find the right treatment to help you handle your menopause, whether that be lifestyle adjustments, medical treatments, or complementary and alternative therapies.
“What sets Valley apart is that we have an emphasis on medical education, which is seen through our residency program. Within our Valley Medical Group physician community, we are conducting research in clinical conditions that affect our midlife and menopause population,” said Kathlyn Kim, MD, a Valley gynecologist and MSCP.
“Choosing a physician who has completed Menopause Society certification means choosing someone with specialized knowledge and training in the unique health needs of women during perimenopause and menopause,” said Michelle Beloff, DO, a Valley gynecologist and MSCP. “The certification demonstrates a commitment to staying current with the latest research, treatment options, and best practices for managing symptoms in a safe and effective manner.”
“When you first notice symptoms, and if those symptoms are impacting your life or are unusual, you should make an appointment to see an OB/GYN,” said Dr. Garfinkel. “There is no reason to suffer. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive, preventive care and is a resource to leading-edge therapies to help with your quality of life and long-term health.”
To schedule an appointment with a Valley MSCP – Dr. Welsh, Dr. Garfinkel, Dr. Kim, or Dr. Beloff – please call 1-800-VALLEY 1 (1-800-852-5391).
