Perimenopause & Postmenopausal Support
Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioners (WHNPs) are skilled healthcare providers who offer comprehensive care to women across the lifespan, including during the peri and postmenopausal years. While their primary focus may not be exclusively on menopausal care, they play an essential role in providing support, education, and management of health concerns during this life stage. Here’s an outline of the menopausal support care model that CNMs and WHNPs can offer:
Education and Counseling
- CNMs and WHNPs provide information about the physical and emotional changes that occur before, during and after menopause, including common symptoms such as hot flashes, mood changes, vaginal dryness, and bone health concerns.
- Offer guidance on managing and coping with these changes through lifestyle modifications, nutrition, exercise, and stress management.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
When appropriate, CNMs and WHNPs can discuss the option of hormone replacement therapy to manage menopausal symptoms. They provide information about the benefits, risks, and alternatives, and help patients make informed decisions.
Individualized Treatment Plans
- Develop a personalized treatment plan based on each persons health history, preferences, and specific menopausal concerns.
- Address and manage health conditions that may arise or worsen after menopause, such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and sexual health issues.
Bone Health Management
CNMs and WHNPs assess and monitor bone health, offering recommendations for calcium and vitamin D supplementation, weight-bearing exercise, and bone density testing.
Cardiovascular Health Promotion
Education about heart health and developing strategies for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease through healthy lifestyle choices, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction.
Mental and Emotional Well Being
Support for emotional changes and challenges that can occur during the menopausal years, including mood swings and depression is essential. Referrals for counseling or therapy are made as needed.
Sexual Health Support
Addressing concerns related to sexual health, including vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, and changes in libido is a priority. We offer guidance on managing these issues and recommend appropriate treatments.
Regular Check Ups and Screenings
- Regular health check-ups are recommended to monitor overall well-being and address any emerging health concerns.
- Individuals continue to receive age-appropriate screenings for conditions such as breast cancer and other preventive health measures.
Lifestyle Modifications
Guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, getting sufficient sleep, and making positive choices help to promote overall wellness before, during and after menopause.
Long Term Care Planning
Engaging in discussions about long term health goals, advance care planning, and end-of-life preferences help to ensure that peoples values and wishes are being respected.
It’s important to remember that while CNMs and WHNPs can provide comprehensive care and support during the postmenopausal years, they may also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as primary care physicians and specialists, to address specific needs and provide holistic care. Regular communication and check-ups with a healthcare provider are essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being before, during and after menopause.