Perimenopause and Menopause: What to Expect and How to Find Relief

Perimenopause and menopause are natural stages of life, but the symptoms can feel confusing and overwhelming. At Covenant Health, we want women to know they’re not alone and relief is possible. 

“With so much information available between the internet and social media it can be overwhelming to know where to start,” said Stephanie Cummings, MD, OB/GYN at Covenant Health Parkwest. “We encourage women to make an appointment with their provider to discuss their questions and concerns and know that we are here to help.” 

This stage of life can bring big changes, but with the right information and a trusted healthcare partner, women can move through it with assurance. 

What’s Happening in Your Body 

Perimenopause is the transition leading up to menopause. Hormone levels, especially estrogen, rise and fall unevenly. These shifts can cause changes in your menstrual cycle and how you feel day to day. 

Menopause begins when you’ve gone 12 months without a menstrual cycle. After menopause, the ovaries make very little estrogen. This change can bring new symptoms or make existing ones more noticeable. 

“While these hormonal changes are normal, it can cause a sudden shift in how women feel physically, mentally and emotionally,” explained Dr. Cummings.  We want women to understand what is happening in their body and know there are ways to help manage these symptoms.”   

Common Symptoms Women Notice 

• Irregular periods 

• Hot flashes or night sweats 

• Trouble sleeping 

• Mood changes 

• Brain fog 

• Vaginal dryness or discomfort 

• Weight changes 

• Skin or hair changes 

These symptoms can be frustrating, especially when they affect daily life. But they’re also well understood, and there are many ways to find relief. 

What Treatments Help 

Options Backed by the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists 

Hormone Therapy 

Hormone therapy is the most effective treatment for hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness. It’s considered safe for many healthy women under age 60 or within 10 years of menopause. 

Nonhormonal Medications 

Certain antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs), gabapentin or the FDA‑approved medication, fezolinetant, can help reduce hot flashes. 

Vaginal Estrogen 

Low dose vaginal estrogen can relieve dryness and discomfort and may help reduce recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). 

Lifestyle Approaches 

• Regular physical activity 

• A balanced, Mediterranean‑style diet 

• Good sleep habits 

• Stress reduction techniques like yoga or deep breathing 

“Our goal is to help women feel like themselves again,” said Dr. Cummings. “There’s no one size fits all plan. We work with each patient to find what fits their life and their health needs.” 

When to Call Your Healthcare Provider 

• Bleeding after menopause 

• Very heavy or prolonged periods 

• Symptoms that interfere with daily life 

• Signs of depression or anxiety 

• Pain during sex that doesn’t improve 

These symptoms don’t always mean something serious, but they should be evaluated. 

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone 

Perimenopause and menopause are major life transitions, but women don’t have to face them without support. Covenant Health offers expert OB/GYN care, convenient locations and a team dedicated to listening and helping women feel their best. 

“If you’re concerned about any symptoms you’re experiencing, make an appointment with your OB/GYN,” Dr. Cummings encourages. “Your healthcare provider can review your full medical history, talk through what’s normal and help determine the best plan of care for you.” 

Every woman deserves compassionate, reliable care, and that’s exactly what we provide at Covenant Health. Our team is here to guide you, answer your questions and help you navigate this stage of life. Find support with Dr. Cummings or another Covenant Health women’s health professional today.