Perimenopause is the transition
Hormone levels fluctuate in the years leading up to menopause. Periods may become less predictable, and you might notice hot flashes, night sweats, trouble sleeping, or vaginal dryness.
San Leandro, CA · Care in English and Spanish
Menopause and perimenopause care
Hot flashes, disrupted sleep, or changes in your periods can leave you wondering what’s going on. Talk through what you’ve noticed and explore options that fit your symptoms, medical history, and preferences.
From the MedSpañol clinic
Understanding Perimenopause & Menopause
This video shows how hormone signaling changes during perimenopause and menopause. Read the guide below to learn what you can discuss at your first visit.
English audio. Playback starts when you press play.
Understand the changes
What changes around menopause?
Menopause has a clinical definition
Natural menopause is generally recognized after 12 months without a period when there’s no other reason for it. If you use hormonal birth control or have had a hysterectomy, your clinician can explain how those factors affect the assessment.
Symptoms can have other causes
A note about when your symptoms started, how often they happen, and what interrupts your day or sleep can help guide the visit. Mention any changes in bleeding to your clinician.
If you have any bleeding after menopause, contact your gynecology clinician promptly, even if it’s light spotting or happens only once.
Your first visit
What to expect from your first consultation
Oziel Iván Vela, PA-C, sees patients in English and Spanish at MedSpañol’s San Leandro clinic.
Tell us what’s changed
Talk through symptoms, menstrual changes, and what you’d like help with. A list of medications and supplements is useful, along with relevant medical and surgical history.
Review whether tests can help
Screening includes baseline blood tests. Your clinician will explain whether additional tests may help evaluate your symptoms or check for other causes.
Go over your results
Your clinician explains what your evaluation shows and how it shapes the next steps.
Discuss your options
If treatment is appropriate, you can discuss hormonal and nonhormonal options, including potential benefits, risks, and costs.
Questions about menopause care
Do I need a hormone test to confirm perimenopause?
In many cases, your clinician can identify perimenopause from your age, symptoms, and changes in your periods. Testing may be helpful in certain situations, such as when periods stop unusually early or another cause needs to be considered.
Could hormone therapy help?
Hormone therapy can help relieve bothersome hot flashes and night sweats. Some forms can help with vaginal dryness. Benefits and risks depend on factors such as your health history, how long it’s been since menopause, and the specific medication. Nonhormonal options are also available.
Can I still get pregnant during perimenopause?
Yes. Pregnancy is still possible even if you skip periods. Ask your clinician about birth control if you want to avoid pregnancy.
Talk with MedSpañol about what’s changed
Schedule online or call the clinic for help booking in English or Spanish.
This page offers general information. Your clinician can advise you on your own care.