Menopause and Women’s Wellness Center

At Ochsner Health, we’re more than just a healthcare provider; we’re your partner in wellness. We take the time to understand your unique needs, offering care that addresses the body, mind and spirit.

Here’s what distinguishes our menopause care in New Orleans from others:

• Expert team: Our multidisciplinary team consists of dedicated OB/GYNs and advanced practice providers who are passionate about improving women’s health. They bring a wealth of experience and a commitment to providing the highest quality care. We also provide easy access to specialized services across cardiology, endocrinology and oncology at Ochsner, ensuring comprehensive care.
• Comprehensive care: We offer a broad spectrum of services, from hormone consultations to address menopausal symptoms to providing cancer survivorship services. Our goal is to offer holistic care that is tailored to each patient’s health goals and lifestyle. Our team offers evidence-based medicine and holistic wellness, ensuring the highest standards of care.
• Support for every stage: Whether you’re in your 40s, 50s or 90s, we’re here to help women thrive through every phase of life. We understand that every woman’s experience is unique, and we aim to provide personalized support for all.
• Healing environment: Our calming, thoughtfully designed space is aimed at making every patient feel cared for and comfortable. We strive to create an environment where you can relax and focus on your health and wellness.

Every woman experiences menopause differently. We’re here to help you manage an array of symptoms and concerns, including:

• Vasomotor symptoms, which are more commonly referred to as hot flashes and night sweats
• Low libido (sex drive) or painful intercourse
• Vaginal atrophy, which is the thinning of the vaginal walls that often happens with menopause
• Vaginal dryness
• Mood swings
• Brain fog and anxiety
• Female pattern hair loss
• Urinary frequency
• Weight gain
• Joint pain
• Sleeplessness, sleep disruptions and fatigue

Our dedicated team is here to help you navigate these challenges and work towards feeling like yourself again, with compassion and expertise.

We offer solutions tailored to your lifestyle, preferences, and medical history. Our services include:

• Menopause management: Offering guidance and treatments, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and non-hormonal options, to alleviate symptoms and enhance quality of life.
• Sexual health care: Providing individualized treatment plans for comprehensive sexual wellness, helping you maintain a healthy and fulfilling intimate life.
• Bone and cardiovascular health: Conducting risk assessments and providing referrals to expert specialists, ensuring that your overall health is managed comprehensively.
• Stress management: Offering tools and therapies to reduce stress, promoting a healthier, more balanced life that enhances well-being.
• Cancer survivorship services: Dedicated support for women managing premature menopause or side effects of cancer treatments, ensuring comprehensive care and support.

What is menopause? Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, marking the end of her menstrual cycles. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 but can vary by individual. Menopause officially begins when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period.

This transition, often referred to as the menopausal transition or perimenopause, is driven by hormonal changes. During this time, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, which can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings and changes in sleep patterns. Other common symptoms include vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and changes in bone density.

What are menopause symptoms? Menopause symptoms are the physical and emotional changes many women experience during the menopausal transition, driven by hormonal changes as the ovaries produce less estrogen and progesterone. These symptoms can vary widely in intensity and duration but often include some of the most recognized changes like hot flashes and night sweats, which may disrupt daily life and sleep.

Additional common menopause symptoms include mood swings, irritability, and anxiety, which can stem from hormonal fluctuations. Many women also report changes in sleep patterns, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and weight gain. Other concerns may involve joint pain, thinning hair, or a decrease in bone density, emphasizing the importance of monitoring women's health during this phase.

What Is a menopause hot flash? A menopause hot flash is one of the most common symptoms experienced during the menopausal transition, caused by hormonal changes that affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Hot flashes are characterized by sudden and intense feelings of heat, often starting in the face, neck or chest, and can spread through the upper body. They are frequently accompanied by sweating, redness of the skin, and sometimes a rapid heartbeat or chills as the episode subsides.

The duration and frequency of menopause hot flashes can vary widely between women. They often occur during the day but may also interrupt sleep, a condition known as night sweats.

What is the difference between perimenopause and menopause? Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, often beginning in a woman’s 40s, though it can start in the late 30s for some. During perimenopause, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, causing changes in menstrual cycles and symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings. Menopause, on the other hand, is confirmed once a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, marking the end of reproductive years. It's during menopause that these symptoms may intensify or new ones may emerge, but both stages are manageable with professional care and appropriate treatment plans designed by our team of specialists.

What is hormone replacement therapy (HRT)? Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment that helps with symptoms of menopause. As women get older, their bodies make less of certain hormones like estrogen and progesterone. This can cause hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. HRT adds these hormones back to help bring balance and make you feel better. HRT therapy is available through tablets, patches, creams or gels. It is not for everyone, so your care team at Ochsner will help you understand your options based on your health and lifestyle.

What is bioidentical hormone therapy (BHT)?  Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHT) is a form of treatment that uses hormones that are just like the ones our bodies make naturally. These hormones come from plants and help with menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. At Ochsner Health, our experts look at your health and needs to make a special plan for you. We focus on keeping treatments safe and making sure they work. Our team helps you manage menopause with care and regular check-ups.

What are non-hormonal treatment options and medications available for menopause?  For women seeking alternatives to hormone replacement therapy, we offer a range of non-hormonal treatment options and medications designed to alleviate menopause symptoms effectively. These can include lifestyle modifications, like dietary changes and regular exercise, as well as prescription medications, such as antidepressants, which can help manage hot flashes and mood swings. Additionally, we provide access to alternative therapies like acupuncture and mindfulness practices, all tailored to support your individual wellness journey. Our specialists will work with you to determine the best approach based on your personal health needs and preferences.

When does menopause typically start? While the average menopause age is 51, perimenopause (a transition phase) can start in a woman’s 40s. This stage is marked by hormonal shifts and the gradual onset of menopause symptoms. Understanding these changes is crucial in managing your health during this period. At Ochsner Health, we’re committed to providing exceptional care and guidance through every stage of menopause, helping you live your life to the fullest with confidence and vitality.

Why does weight gain happen during menopause? Weight gain during menopause often occurs due to hormonal changes that affect metabolism. As estrogen levels decrease, the body may store more fat, and the distribution of fat can shift, leading to more abdominal weight. Additionally, aging and lifestyle factors such as decreased physical activity and changes in diet can contribute to weight gain. Managing weight during menopause involves a balanced diet, regular exercise and possibly consulting a specialist for personalized advice.