As hundreds of thousand women transition into menopause, here are the most common questions during this normal hormonal change. Hormones have a significant hand into this disruptive stage of life.

Why is it so hard to lose weight in midlife?

If you’re gaining weight despite eating well and staying active, don’t blame yourself. Beginning in midlife, estrogen typically begins a jagged decline, triggering metabolic shifts that often cause stubborn midsection weight gain. It’s frustrating—but don’t blame yourself. I’m here to help you understand what’s driving that weight gain and how to address it.

When should I start hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

You can consider HRT at the first sign of disruptive menopause symptoms—brain fog, hot flashes, or unexplained midsection weight gain—even if you’re still getting your period. The optimal window for starting HRT is when the benefits outweigh the risks, typically within 10 years of your last period. I’ll help you weigh the pros and cons for your situation.

What are non-hormonal treatments for menopause symptoms?

Depending on your symptoms, I may recommend SSRIs or SNRIs for vasomotor symptoms, gabapentin or fezolinetant (Veozah) for hot flashes, and/or GLP‑1 medications to help with blood sugar, appetite cues, and sometimes hot flashes and night sweats. I’m trained to tailor treatments to your preferences and medical history.

Can I be on both a GLP‑1 and HRT together?

Yes—combining HRT with semaglutide has helped some people achieve up to ~30% greater weight reduction while also easing menopause symptoms. I’ll work with you to determine if that combination is appropriate, manage potential side effects, and support lifestyle changes that promote healthy, sustainable results.