Menopause

Menopause marks the cessation of the menstrual cycle for women and people assigned female at birth. The Columbia University Menopause Program has a multi-disciplinary team of experts to help patients navigate this stage.

There is a hormonal shift that starts to occur as estrogen levels decrease in the late 30s and 40s. Perimenopause, which means, “around menopause” usually begins with an onset of changes to the regular menstrual cycle. During this time, patients might notice symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, changes in libido, brain fog, and pelvic and urinary changes. The onset and severity of symptoms varies from patient to patient.

But menopause care is not just about these symptoms – it's about focusing on the whole person. There will be new risk factors and changes to bone health, cardiovascular health, and mental health. Each patient experiences perimenopause and menopause differently, and our team practices with the most innovative research to address your individual needs.

Treatment

The Columbia University Menopause Program seeks to raise awareness and educate patients on their bodies and the natural progression in menopause. No two patients will have the same needs. You can start your menopause care journey with a virtual visit to get to know us. In this session, we will review your health history, symptoms, and concerns. We can also address the following in your initial consult:

• Education and Awareness: We are starting to talk openly about menopause as a society, but there is still a need for more public education. Some patients who see us have no symptoms yet, but want to know what to expect in their 40s and 50s.
• Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT): For patients who are candidates, we prescribe hormone therapy to treat disruptive symptoms and prevent bone loss.
• Nonhormonal Therapy: Some patients have health conditions that preclude them from using hormones. These include a history of heart attack or stroke or a history of breast cancer. There are nonhormonal medications that can treat many of the same conditions as hormones.
• Psychological Support: Menopause can bring about emotional and psychological challenges. Our OBGYN department has a specialized Women’s Mental Health Program.
• Sexual Health: Menopause can impact sexual health, including changes in libido and the pelvic floor.
• Preventative Health: Need a mammogram or a new Primary Care Physician? We can connect you to providers within the Columbia University Medical Center network.

Office Locations

• 51 West 51st St, 3^rd Floor
  New York, NY 10019
• 5 Columbus Circle, 12^th Floor
  New York, NY 10019