How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Perimenopause Counseling

Audience: pediatric

Perimenopause is the time before menopause when a person's body starts to change, often causing symptoms like irregular periods, mood swings, or hot flashes. If you or someone you care for is approaching this stage, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help answer questions and provide support. Preparing for this visit can make it easier to talk about symptoms and concerns. During the visit, the provider may discuss lifestyle tips, symptom management, and when to seek further care. Remember, telemedicine can provide helpful guidance but is not a replacement for in-person exams when needed. This guide helps pediatric patients and their families get ready for a video visit about perimenopause counseling, so they feel informed and comfortable.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Heavy or very irregular vaginal bleeding that soaks through pads or lasts more than a few days.
• Severe pelvic or abdominal pain that does not improve or worsens.
• Sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, or fainting during or after symptoms.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing common perimenopause symptoms and concerns.
• Providing lifestyle and symptom management advice.
• Answering questions about when to seek further care or testing.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or pelvic exams.
• Diagnosing serious conditions that require lab tests or imaging.
• Managing emergencies or severe symptoms needing immediate in-person care.

What Is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transition phase before menopause, usually starting in a person's 40s but sometimes earlier or later. During this time, hormone levels change, which can cause symptoms like changes in menstrual cycles, mood swings, sleep problems, and hot flashes. Understanding these changes can help you know what to expect and when to ask for help.

Why Have a Video Visit for Perimenopause Counseling?

A video visit lets you talk with a healthcare provider from home or another comfortable place. They can answer your questions about symptoms, suggest ways to manage changes, and discuss healthy habits. This is especially helpful if you cannot visit a clinic easily or want privacy. The provider can guide you on when an in-person visit might be needed.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, write down any symptoms you or your family member have noticed. Include how often they happen and how they affect daily life. Prepare a list of questions or concerns. Make sure your device has a working camera and microphone, and find a quiet, private space with good internet connection. Have a pen and paper ready to take notes.

What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They may suggest ways to ease symptoms, like diet changes, exercise, or stress management. Sometimes, they might recommend tests or an in-person visit for further care. You can ask questions anytime during the visit.

When to Seek Immediate Care

If you or someone you care for experiences heavy bleeding, severe pain, sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, seek emergency medical help right away. These signs are not typical of perimenopause and need urgent attention.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List current symptoms and how they affect daily life.
• Prepare questions or topics you want to discuss.
• Test your device's camera, microphone, and internet connection.
• Find a quiet, private space for the video visit.
• Have a pen and paper ready to take notes.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any advice or lifestyle changes suggested by the provider.
• Schedule any recommended tests or in-person visits.
• Monitor symptoms and note any changes or new concerns.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new red flags appear.
• Keep a record of your symptoms and treatments for future visits.

FAQs

What age does perimenopause usually start?

Perimenopause often begins in the 40s but can start earlier or later depending on the person. It is the natural transition before menopause.

Can a video visit replace all in-person care for perimenopause?

Video visits are useful for discussing symptoms and getting advice but cannot replace physical exams or tests that may be needed in person.

What symptoms should make me seek emergency care?

Seek immediate medical help for heavy bleeding soaking through pads quickly, severe pain, chest pain, trouble breathing, or fainting, as these are not typical perimenopause symptoms.

How can I manage hot flashes and mood swings?

Lifestyle changes like dressing in layers, avoiding triggers (like spicy food), regular exercise, and stress reduction can help. Your provider may suggest other options during your visit.

Will I need hormone therapy?

Hormone therapy is one option but not always necessary. Your healthcare provider will discuss benefits and risks based on your symptoms and health history.

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 and Perimenopause — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

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