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It’s Not “Just Hormones.” How To Own Your Menopause.
What is menopause?
Every woman will eventually face menopause, which is the natural end of menstruation. Yet many remain unprepared for the journey that begins years earlier during perimenopause. This transitional time brings hormonal fluctuations that can impact quality of life including poor sleep quality, mood changes and physical discomfort. We sat down with Dr. Katrina Sawatsky, a Primary Care Network (PCN) physician, who runs a virtual menopause clinic and sees these issues firsthand. One of the biggest gaps that has been identified is the lack of understanding around when symptoms can begin and how they should be treated. “The time between two years before and two years after the final period is the most vulnerable time in a woman’s life for mood symptoms,” Dr. Sawatsky explains.
What symptoms should I be looking for?
Many women experience symptoms from menopause and perimenopause that often go unrecognized. Beyond the well-known hot flashes and night sweats, Dr. Sawatsky sees patients struggling with:
- Anxiety and depression
- ADHD-like symptoms
- Joint pain
- Exhaustion or low energy
- Sleep disturbances
- Heart palpitations
- Unexplained weight gain
- Irregular periods
“Menopausal symptoms can affect every system in the body,” she notes, highlighting why talking to your healthcare provider is so important.
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause can begin years before your period stops completely. Dr. Sawatsky notes that perimenopausal symptoms can begin as early as your 40s and may include mood swings, brain fog, and fatigue. During perimenopause, women have more treatment options available, including birth control and hormonal IUDs that can address both symptom management and hormone irregularities.
Where and how can I access support?
Dr. Sawatsky has also been working to eliminate barriers for individuals who face challenges of accessing primary care. Her virtual clinic M Power addresses these barriers by eliminating geographic limitations and time constraints. “Menopause is the perfect avenue for virtual care because we’re talking about symptoms,” Dr. Sawatsky explains. Those living in rural areas or working daytime hours no longer need to take time off to attend appointments.
Dr. Sawatsky recommends women to:
- Educate yourself
- Advocate for yourself
- Seek help early from your primary care provider
- Use reliable sources for information
For evidence-based resources, Dr. Sawatsky recommends professional organizations such as:
Whether you’re navigating menopause or another stage of life, Mosaic PCN is also here to help. Our women’s health team provides care for women at all life stages, including menopause support, cervical screening, and birth control.
If you don’t have a dedicated primary care provider, our ICON program can connect you to the healthcare services you need. You can self-refer by visiting our Sunridge Mall Clinic (ACCESS) or calling 403-250-5066.
If you’re experiencing symptoms that may be related to perimenopause or menopause, don’t hesitate to seek help. Please talk to your primary care provider for advice, resources, or a referral to a menopause specialist.
