Perimenopause & Menopause Care in Manhattan Beach
The transition to menopause can begin years before your final period, bringing changes to your cycle, sleep, mood, and body that can feel confusing and disruptive. At Cove Midwifery and Women's Health in Manhattan Beach, CA , we help women navigate perimenopause and menopause with respect, clear information, and personalized options, so this stage of life feels supported rather than something to simply endure.
Understanding the Stages
- Perimenopause: The transition years, often beginning in your 40s, when estrogen and progesterone fluctuate and cycles become unpredictable.
- Menopause: Officially reached after 12 consecutive months without a period. The average age in the United States is 51.
- Postmenopause: The years after menopause, when long-term bone, heart, and pelvic health become especially important.
Common Symptoms
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Sleep disruption and fatigue
- Mood changes, anxiety, or irritability
- Brain fog and trouble concentrating
- Irregular, heavier, or lighter periods
- Vaginal dryness and discomfort with intercourse
- Bladder changes and more frequent urinary tract infections
- Joint aches, weight changes, and decreased libido
Personalized Care for This Transition
Our well-woman gynecology visits allow time for a full conversation about your symptoms, health history, and priorities. Depending on your needs, your care plan may include:
- Lifestyle strategies: Nutrition, strength training, sleep hygiene, and stress support. Our integrative network includes nutritional consultants and mental health specialists.
- Hormone therapy: For many healthy women, menopausal hormone therapy is a safe and effective option for hot flashes and other symptoms. We review benefits and risks with you.
- Non-hormonal options: Prescription and non-prescription alternatives for women who cannot or prefer not to use hormones.
- Vaginal health: Moisturizers, lubricants, and low-dose vaginal estrogen for dryness and discomfort.
- Integrated hormone health: Coordination with our affiliated hormone and longevity specialists for advanced perimenopause support.
Contraception Still Matters in Perimenopause
Pregnancy is still possible during perimenopause. We help you choose contraception that fits this stage of life, and some options can also ease heavy or irregular bleeding.
Protecting Your Long-Term Health
Falling estrogen affects bone density, heart health, and the pelvic floor. We recommend appropriate screenings and can help with pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms such as leaking or pressure. If you have a history of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure in pregnancy, or PCOS, we factor that into your heart and metabolic screening. Learn more about our practice, meet our team, or browse all conditions we treat.
Perimenopause & Menopause FAQs
At what age does perimenopause start?
Perimenopause most often begins in the 40s, though some women notice changes in their late 30s.
How do I know if I am in perimenopause?
Changes in cycle length or flow, hot flashes, sleep problems, and mood shifts in your 40s are common signs. Your provider can help confirm it.
Is hormone therapy safe?
For many healthy women under 60 or within 10 years of menopause, hormone therapy is considered safe and effective. We review your personal risks with you.
Can I still get pregnant during perimenopause?
Yes. Contraception is recommended until you have gone 12 months without a period.
What helps with vaginal dryness?
Moisturizers, lubricants, and low-dose vaginal estrogen are effective options. Vaginal estrogen is safe for many women.
Are there non-hormonal treatments for hot flashes?
Yes. Several non-hormonal prescription options and lifestyle strategies can reduce hot flashes.
Can a midwife provide menopause care?
Yes. Certified Nurse-Midwives provide gynecologic care across the lifespan, including perimenopause and menopause.
Feel Like Yourself Through Every Stage
You deserve care that takes your symptoms seriously. Call Cove Midwifery and Women's Health at (844) 808-COVE or request an appointment with our team in Manhattan Beach.