While menopause is a natural part of aging, it can cause sleep disruptions, skin changes, stress, brain fog, weight gain, hot flashes and other symptoms. St. Luke’s University Health Network wants women to know they are not alone.
“We believe that women deserve support during this unfamiliar stage of their lives,” said Ann Freeman, DO, one of four physicians and two nurse practitioners at St. Luke’s who are certified menopause specialists.
Women can schedule a menopause visit with a women’s healthcare provider. “We often schedule these appointments for a full hour and spend time talking to patients about their concerns related to the changes their bodies are going through,” Freeman said. “We review ways to treat their menopause symptoms and guide them to options that will get them the most benefit.”
Freeman noted that diet and exercise can often help with symptoms of perimenopause, which can last up to 10 years, and menopause, which is defined as no period for a full year. “But sometimes more is needed and there is a lot we can do,” she said. “Some of the solutions we can offer go beyond general OB/GYN care including weight management, pelvic floor physical therapy, urogynecology and behavioral health.”
Women also are encouraged to attend “Menopause & Me” discussion groups where St. Luke’s menopause specialists answer questions in a small group setting.
- Sleep and Mood Changes will be discussed from 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11, in the Lower-Level Conference Room A and B at St. Luke’s Anderson Campus Medical Office Building, 1700 St. Luke’s Boulevard, Easton. Featured speakers will be John Illingworth, MSW, and Judith Illingworth, MSW.
- Weight Management and Nutrition will be held from 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13, at St. Luke’s Valley GYN Associates, 322 South 17th Street, Allentown. Featured speakers will be Dorraine Salmon, lead outpatient dietitian, and Rosie Hulbert, fitness instructor.
Space is limited and registration is required. To register, visit go.sluhn.org/menopauseandme.
A Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP) is a licensed healthcare professional who has undergone rigorous training and passed a demanding examination from The Menopause Society to demonstrate specialized knowledge in menopause and midlife women’s health, Freeman said.
In addition to Freeman, St. Luke’s MSCP-certified providers are: Gina Harper Harrison, MD; Jennifer Landes, DO; Douha Sabouni, MD; Angie MacMillan, CRNP; and Valerie Schissler, CRNP.
