Frequently Asked Questions
Our goal is to ensure you feel informed, supported, and confident in your healthcare decisions. We encourage questions and take the time to discuss treatment options, risks, benefits, and alternatives so that all of your concerns are addressed to your satisfaction. If you have additional questions, please don't hesitate to contact us—we're happy to help.
Why should I seek menopause care?
Because many women are told their symptoms are simply something they have to "put up with." The reality is that effective treatments exist, and addressing menopause symptoms can significantly improve quality of life, sleep, mood, sexual health, and long-term health outcomes.
Do I need a referral to book an appointment?
No. A referral is not required. Patients can book directly through the clinic website.
Do you provide virtual appointments?
Yes. Appointments are conducted virtually, allowing you to access care from the comfort of your home.
What can I expect during my first appointment?
Your initial consultation includes a comprehensive review of your medical history, symptoms, medications, health risks, and treatment goals. Together, we will discuss how perimenopause or menopause may be affecting your health and develop an individualized treatment plan.
How long are appointments?
Initial consultations are approximately 45 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically 20 minutes.
What symptoms can you help with?
We can assess and manage many symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause, including:
Hot flashes and night sweats
Sleep disturbances
Mood changes, anxiety, and depression
Brain fog and memory concerns
Vaginal dryness and painful intercourse
Bladder symptoms and recurrent urinary tract infections
Low libido and sexual health concerns
Weight and metabolic concerns
Hair thinning and skin changes
Bone health and osteoporosis prevention
Do I need blood work before my appointment?
Not always. Your intake forms will be reviewed before your appointment. If blood work or additional testing would be helpful, arrangements will be made before or after your consultation.
Is blood work covered?
Laboratory testing ordered through the clinic is covered through provincial healthcare plans.
What is Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT)?
Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT) uses estrogen, with or without progesterone depending on whether you have a uterus, to help manage menopause symptoms. MHT is the most effective treatment for hot flashes and night sweats and may also improve sleep, mood, vaginal symptoms, and help prevent bone loss.
Is hormone therapy safe?
For many healthy women under age 60 or within 10 years of menopause, hormone therapy is considered safe and effective. However, treatment is not appropriate for everyone. Your individual risks and benefits will be carefully reviewed before any treatment recommendations are made.
What if I cannot take hormones or prefer not to?
There are several non-hormonal treatment options available. Depending on your symptoms, these may include prescription medications, lifestyle interventions, cognitive behavioural therapy, pelvic floor physiotherapy, vaginal moisturizers and lubricants, or other evidence-based treatments.
Do you prescribe bioidentical hormones?
We prescribe Health Canada-approved hormone therapies, many of which are bioidentical. We do not routinely recommend compounded bioidentical hormone therapy because it is not regulated or tested to the same standards as approved pharmaceutical products.
Can you help with vaginal dryness and painful intercourse?
Yes. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) is extremely common and highly treatable. Treatment options may include vaginal estrogen, vaginal DHEA, moisturizers, lubricants, pelvic floor physiotherapy, and other therapies depending on your symptoms.
Can you help with low libido?
Yes. Sexual health concerns are common during menopause and often have multiple contributing factors. We take a comprehensive approach that may include hormone assessment, treatment of vaginal symptoms, relationship factors, psychological support, and, when appropriate, testosterone therapy.
Can hormone therapy help with weight loss?
Hormone therapy is not a weight loss treatment. However, it may improve symptoms such as sleep disturbances, hot flashes, and mood changes that can indirectly affect weight and overall well-being.
Can menopause cause anxiety, depression, or brain fog?
Yes. Hormonal changes during perimenopause can contribute to mood changes, anxiety, irritability, memory difficulties, and problems with concentration. These symptoms are common and can often be improved with appropriate treatment and support.
How often will I need follow-up appointments?
Follow-up frequency depends on your symptoms, treatment plan, and medical history. Most patients are seen several weeks after starting or changing treatment and then periodically for ongoing monitoring and support.
Will I receive a prescription at my first appointment?
Possibly. If sufficient information is available and no further testing is required, treatment may be initiated during your first visit. In some cases, additional investigations may be needed before treatment can safely begin.
Do you offer care for women after menopause?
Absolutely. Menopause care extends far beyond the final menstrual period. We provide care for women throughout perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause, with a focus on symptom management, sexual health, cardiovascular health, bone health, and healthy aging.
Can I use my health benefits?
Many patients can use a Health Spending Account (HSA) through their employer benefits plan to cover clinic fees. We recommend checking with your insurance provider regarding your specific coverage.
What if menopause hormone therapy isn't right for me?
Not everyone is a candidate for hormone therapy, and not everyone wants to take hormones. Our goal is to provide individualized, evidence-based care and discuss all appropriate treatment options so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your health needs and personal preferences.
What if menopause hormone therapy isn't right for me?
Not everyone is a candidate for hormone therapy, and not everyone wants to take hormones. Our goal is to provide individualized, evidence-based care and discuss all appropriate treatment options so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your health needs and personal preferences.
