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Midlife weight gain: why it happens and what works
Falling estrogen shifts fat to the middle, muscle declines, sleep worsens and insulin resistance rises. Willpower was never the problem. Medicine can help.
What changes
Resting metabolism falls with muscle loss, fat redistributes to the abdomen, and poor sleep raises hunger hormones. The result is weight gain on the same habits, and a higher cardiometabolic risk than the number on the scale suggests.
What we do
A metabolic review (A1c, lipids, liver, thyroid), body composition rather than weight alone, a protein-forward food plan with our dietitian, strength training guidance, sleep treatment, and anti-obesity medication when appropriate, prescribed by a board-certified obesity medicine physician. Hormone therapy does not cause weight gain and often makes the rest easier by fixing sleep.
The VPMC Weight Loss Clinic
Women who want a structured program join the VPMC Weight Loss Clinic with the same team and the same record.
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.