Frequently Asked Questions

Women's Hormone Health & Menopause

Physician-led perimenopause, menopause & hormone therapy (HRT, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone) care in Scarsdale/Westchester & tri-state telehealth. If you do not see your question here, request a consultation and we can help you choose the right next step.

1. What are the first signs of perimenopause?

Perimenopause often begins in your 40s (sometimes late 30s) and can bring irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disruption, mood changes, brain fog, and shifts in libido. Because these symptoms overlap with thyroid and other conditions, our physician-led team in Scarsdale typically reviews your history and may order labs to understand what's driving them. Care is individualized rather than one-size-fits-all, and we see patients both in person and via telehealth across the NY/NJ/CT tri-state area.

2. What's the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause is the transition phase when hormone levels fluctuate and periods become irregular, while menopause is officially reached after 12 consecutive months without a period. The years afterward are called postmenopause. A physician can help clarify where you are in this process through your symptom history and, when appropriate, lab testing, so your care plan fits your actual stage.

3. Is hormone replacement therapy (HRT) safe for menopause?

For many women, hormone therapy can be a reasonable option when prescribed and supervised by a physician who weighs your personal and family health history. Safety depends on factors like your age, time since menopause, the type and dose of hormones, and your individual risk profile. At our Scarsdale clinic we review these factors individually and monitor patients over time rather than applying a blanket approach.

4. Do I need lab work before starting hormone therapy?

In most cases, yes. Bloodwork helps our physicians assess your hormone levels, thyroid function, and other markers that inform whether hormone therapy is appropriate and how it should be dosed. Labs also give us a baseline to monitor over time. This lab-informed, physician-supervised process is central to how we practice, whether you're seen in person in Westchester or through telehealth.

5. What is bioidentical hormone therapy and how is it different?

Bioidentical hormones are structurally identical to the hormones your body produces, and they're available in both FDA-approved forms and custom-compounded preparations. They aren't automatically safer or more effective than conventional hormones simply because they're labeled bioidentical. A physician can explain the options and help you choose what may fit your health profile, goals, and preferences on a case-by-case basis.

6. Can testosterone therapy help women with low libido or fatigue?

Testosterone is a hormone women produce too, and in select cases physicians may consider it as part of an individualized plan for concerns like low libido, energy, or well-being. Its use in women is nuanced and requires careful evaluation, appropriate labs, and ongoing monitoring. Our physician-led team reviews whether it may be suitable for you rather than offering it as a routine add-on.

7. What are common side effects of HRT?

Depending on the type and dose, some women experience side effects such as breast tenderness, bloating, spotting, headaches, or mood changes, particularly when starting therapy. Many of these can be managed by adjusting the regimen under physician supervision. That's why we monitor patients over time and encourage you to report any changes so your plan can be fine-tuned.

8. How long does it take for HRT to start working?

Many women notice changes in symptoms like hot flashes and sleep within a few weeks, while other effects may take a couple of months to settle as your body adjusts. Timelines vary based on the hormones used, your dosing, and your individual physiology. Because response differs from person to person, our physicians typically schedule follow-up to assess how you're doing and adjust as needed.

9. Why do I need progesterone if I'm taking estrogen?

For women who still have a uterus, progesterone is generally prescribed alongside estrogen to help protect the uterine lining. The specific type, dose, and schedule are decisions your physician makes based on your health history and how you respond. This is one of many reasons hormone therapy should be individualized and physician-supervised rather than self-directed.

10. Can I get menopause and hormone care through telehealth?

Yes. Many parts of menopause and hormone care, including consultations, symptom review, and follow-up, can be handled via telehealth for patients across the NY/NJ/CT tri-state area. Some steps, such as initial lab work, may involve an in-person or local lab visit. Our Scarsdale, Westchester practice combines convenient telehealth with a thorough, physician-led clinical process.

11. Does insurance cover menopause or hormone therapy?

Coverage for menopause consultations, labs, and hormone therapy varies widely by insurance plan and the specific services involved. Some components may be covered while others are not, and details depend on your individual policy. We recommend checking directly with your insurer, and our team can help you understand what a physician-led evaluation and treatment plan typically includes.

12. How do I find a menopause or hormone specialist near me in Westchester?

Our physician-led clinic in Scarsdale, NY serves patients throughout Westchester and the broader NY/NJ/CT tri-state area for perimenopause, menopause, and hormone health. We offer both in-person visits and telehealth, using a lab-informed, individualized approach to care. Scheduling a consultation is the best first step to discuss your symptoms and whether hormone therapy may be appropriate for you.

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