For many women, the transition into menopause brings symptoms that can feel confusing, disruptive or isolating. Hot flashes, restless nights, brain fog, shifting moods and changes in physical health can appear gradually or all at once. Even though these symptoms are common, many women are unsure where to turn for guidance.
Atrium Health Women’s Care takes a holistic, evidence-based approach to managing menopause with both in-person and virtual options.
Now, convenient virtual menopause visits make it easy for patients to meet face-to-face with menopause specialists who understand what they’re going through. Supported by the trusted expertise of Atrium Health Women’s Care, these clinicians evaluate symptoms, tailor treatment and help women feel more like themselves again — all in a format that fits into daily routines.
“Women deserve to feel heard and supported during this transition,” says Dr. Brittany Papworth, a certified menopause provider and OB/GYN with Atrium Health Women’s Care. “For years, women were told to just suffer through symptoms. Now we have the training, the evidence, and the access to help them feel better.”
What virtual menopause visits offer
Atrium Health Women’s Care’s virtual menopause offerings connect patients with providers who are specially trained in menopause management and certified as Menopause Society Certified Practitioners. These clinicians have completed advanced education in menopause care and understand the full range of treatment options available.
“This training gives us the comfort and expertise to treat and prescribe safely,” Papworth says. “Patients can feel confident that we understand the therapies available and how to tailor them.”
Virtual visits also make care more accessible. Patients can schedule appointments more easily, avoid travel and still receive comprehensive support.
Who’s a good fit
Virtual menopause care is designed for patients ages 40 and older who are experiencing symptoms related to menopause. This may include hot flashes, night sweats, sleep problems, brain fog, painful intercourse, low libido, skin or hair changes, or mood shifts.
Patients should also have a primary care provider or OB-GYN who manages routine screenings such as pelvic exams and mammograms.
Virtual care works well for most menopause concerns, but some symptoms still require an in-person evaluation.
“If someone has abnormal uterine bleeding or breast changes, we want them to be seen in person as well,” Papworth says. “We can still talk with them virtually, but those symptoms need a physical exam.”
Mental health is also part of the conversation. Up to 70% of perimenopausal or postmenopausal women experience symptoms of depression, compared to 30% of premenopausal women. Virtual care providers address these concerns and help patients connect with their primary care provider if more specialized support is needed.
What to expect
The first appointment lasts about 30 minutes and begins with a conversation about symptoms, medical history and what the patient hopes to accomplish.
“I usually ask patients to pick their top three concerns,” Papworth says. “We can address everything, but having clear goals helps us focus on what matters most to them.”
From there, providers review treatment options, including hormonal and non-hormonal therapies. The choice depends on a patient’s medical history and what is safe and effective for them. If hormone therapy is appropriate, the team can prescribe estrogen, progesterone or testosterone without requiring an in-person visit.
Patients also receive a virtual handbook with guidance on nutrition, exercise, sleep and mindfulness. These tools are tailored to individual goals, such as improving sleep, and managing symptoms such as hot flashes, low libido or joint and muscle pain.
Follow-up visits are typically scheduled six to eight weeks later, especially if medication adjustments are needed.
Where listening leads the way
For many women, the most meaningful part of the virtual menopause visit is simply feeling understood. Menopause symptoms can be disruptive and discouraging, especially when they are dismissed or minimized.
“Whether virtual or in person, it’s important for patients to know their symptoms are real,” Papworth says. “Nothing they bring up is too uncomfortable for us to talk about. These are conversations we have every day.”
She adds that each provider works to create a space where women feel supported.
“For women who have felt dismissed in the past, this is a place you can finally be heard,” Papworth says. “You don’t have to navigate this alone.”
Learn more about care options with Atrium Health Women’s Care’s Virtual Menopause offerings.
