It's not just you.
It's no secret that perimenopause and menopause bring about changes. Those changes you are feeling are real - and you don't have to navigate them alone.
At Story Medical, Dr. Audra Poterucha offers advanced care for women with a focus on listening, understanding, and helping you feel like yourself again. Because while your body is changing - who you are isn't.
Care That Listens Differently
As a mom, a young woman, and a board-certified family medicine physician, Dr. Poterucha brings in expertise from all walks of life. She had gone through advanced training for treating both perimenopause and menopause, but also does something that many others don't...she listens.
She won't just treat your symptoms - she'll treat YOU. Because your life shouldn't be defined by the changes you're going through - you deserve to have this chapter of your story be your best one yet.
Perimenopause vs. Menopause
It's important to note the differences between the two. While many of the symptoms overlap, not all do.
Perimenopause: this is the transitional phase that leads up menopause. It generally begins in a woman's 40s and lasts up until menopause begins. Estrogen levels begin to fluctuate during perimenopause - so you may not even notice symptoms at first.
Menopause: this is officially diagnosed once a woman has not had a period for 12 consecutive months. This typically occurs in the late 40s to early 50s.
What You Might Be Feeling
It seems like the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause are never-ending, so a better question might be, what aren't you feeling? The list below is not complete by any means, but are some of the more common symptoms:
- Irregular periods or stopping altogether
- Hot flashes
- Mood changes - increased anxiety, irritability, or mood swings
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Vaginal dryness
- Weight Gain
What to Expect
Your first initial appointment will start with a conversation. The two of you will talk through your symptoms, how long you've been experiencing them, the impact they're having, and any concerns you might have.
From there, it's time to build a plan that fits YOUR life. There is no one size fits all plan when it comes to perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Poterucha will help you write a new chapter that fits your story.
For Every Chapter
Your body changes over time - and your chare should too. We're here for every chapter - through the changes you've been afraid to mention, the questions you're not sure how to ask, and everything in between. Schedule an appointment today!