Home / Bone & heart
Protecting your bones and heart after menopause
Heart disease becomes the leading cause of death for women after menopause, and one in two women over 50 will break a bone from osteoporosis. Both are largely preventable, and both are internal medicine.
Heart and blood vessels
Estrogen loss raises LDL cholesterol, blood pressure and abdominal fat. We measure the real risk (lipids, lipoprotein(a) once, blood pressure, A1c, family history), use coronary calcium scoring when it changes the decision, and treat with lifestyle, statins or blood pressure medication as needed. Hormone therapy started early may be neutral or favorable for the heart; started late it is not, which is one reason timing matters.
Bones
Bone loss accelerates in the five years after the last period. We check vitamin D and calcium intake, order a DEXA scan at the right time (65, or earlier with risk factors), prescribe strength and impact exercise, and treat osteopenia and osteoporosis with the medication that fits. Hormone therapy prevents bone loss when it is being used for symptoms.
Screening on schedule
Mammogram, cervical screening, colon cancer screening, lung screening for smokers, and a yearly review so nothing is missed.
Common questions
Is this a gynecology practice?
No. We are internal medicine physicians with a focus on perimenopause and menopause. We treat the symptoms and the long-term risks that come with this stage, including heart, bone, weight, sleep and mood, and we work with your OB/GYN when a procedure or gynecologic exam is needed.
Do I need a referral?
No. Book directly online, or call or text. If you have an OB/GYN or primary care provider, we send them a summary with your permission.
Is hormone therapy safe?
For most healthy women within ten years of menopause or under 60, current guidelines consider hormone therapy a reasonable and effective option for bothersome symptoms. Some conditions change that answer, which is why the first visit is a full medical review. We follow the Menopause Society guidance and explain the trade-offs plainly.
Is it covered by insurance?
Visits are billed to your insurance as medical visits through Privia Medical Group. Medications are usually covered with a standard copay. See the insurance page.
Can I do visits by video?
Yes. After the first visit most follow-ups can be by secure video anywhere in Virginia.
You do not have to put up with it.
A 45-minute consult that takes your symptoms seriously and looks at the whole picture.