How to prepare for a video visit about Perimenopause Counseling

Audience: adult

Perimenopause is the phase before menopause when your body starts to change, often causing symptoms like irregular periods, hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep problems. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand these changes and discuss ways to manage symptoms. Preparing for your telemedicine appointment can make the visit more effective. This includes noting your symptoms, medical history, and any questions you have. During the visit, your provider may talk about lifestyle changes, symptom relief options, and when to seek further care. Remember, telemedicine can provide valuable counseling and guidance but cannot replace in-person exams or urgent medical care. If you experience severe symptoms, such as heavy bleeding or chest pain, seek immediate help. This guide helps you get ready for your video visit about perimenopause counseling so you can make the most of your time with your healthcare provider.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Heavy or prolonged vaginal bleeding that soaks through pads or lasts more than a week — seek urgent medical care.
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden weakness — call emergency services immediately.
• Severe pelvic pain or sudden worsening of symptoms — contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and concerns related to perimenopause.
• Providing education about hormonal changes and symptom management.
• Recommending lifestyle changes to ease symptoms.
• Suggesting when to seek in-person evaluation or tests.
• Offering emotional support and counseling.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or pelvic exams.
• Conducting laboratory or imaging tests.
• Diagnosing conditions that require in-person assessment.
• Providing emergency care for severe symptoms.

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the natural transition period before menopause, usually starting in your 40s but sometimes earlier. During this time, your ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, leading to changes in your menstrual cycle and other symptoms. Common signs include irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and trouble sleeping. Understanding these changes can help you manage symptoms and prepare for menopause.

How Telemedicine Can Help with Perimenopause Counseling

A video visit allows you to talk with a healthcare provider from home. They can listen to your symptoms, answer questions, and suggest lifestyle tips or treatments to ease symptoms. Telemedicine is convenient and private, making it easier to discuss sensitive topics. Your provider may also recommend tracking your symptoms or suggest tests if needed. However, some evaluations require in-person visits.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

To get the most from your appointment, prepare ahead by:

What to Expect During the Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, health history, and lifestyle. They may discuss ways to manage symptoms, such as diet, exercise, stress reduction, or medications. They might suggest tracking your menstrual cycle or symptoms to better understand your experience. If needed, they may recommend an in-person exam or lab tests to rule out other causes.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some symptoms require urgent or in-person evaluation, such as:

If you experience these, seek emergency care immediately.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Make a list of your symptoms, including their frequency and severity.
• Gather information about your menstrual cycle history.
• List current medications, supplements, and treatments.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Test your device's camera, microphone, and internet connection.
• Choose a quiet, private space for your video visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any lifestyle or treatment recommendations from your provider.
• Track your symptoms as advised to monitor changes.
• Schedule any recommended in-person visits or tests.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear.
• Keep a record of your telemedicine visit notes and instructions.

FAQs

What symptoms are common during perimenopause?

Common symptoms include irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, difficulty sleeping, and vaginal dryness. These symptoms vary in intensity and duration for each person.

Can telemedicine provide hormone therapy prescriptions?

Telemedicine providers may discuss hormone therapy options and prescribe medications if appropriate, but often an in-person exam or tests are needed before starting treatment.

How can I manage hot flashes and night sweats?

Lifestyle changes such as dressing in layers, avoiding triggers like spicy foods or caffeine, practicing relaxation techniques, and maintaining a cool sleeping environment can help. Your provider may also discuss medications if needed.

When should I see a doctor in person?

If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, or symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath, you should seek in-person or emergency care. Also, if telemedicine providers recommend tests or exams, follow their advice.

Is perimenopause the same as menopause?

No. Perimenopause is the transition phase leading up to menopause, when menstrual periods stop completely. Menopause is diagnosed after 12 months without a period.

Sources

1. Perimenopause and Menopause — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Menopause: Overview — Mayo Clinic.
3. Menopause and Perimenopause — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Menopause — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have urgent or severe symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.