Midlife can be full of possibilities. But as you head toward menopause, it’s also a time of transition for your body.
You may notice that your periods are more irregular, and you have symptoms like hot flashes, sleep problems, mood swings, low libido, and weight gain.
It can feel as if your body is suddenly following a new playbook that you haven't been given.
Many people find it helpful to see a doctor with special training in menopause and perimenopause. At UPMC Magee-Womens, many providers are Menopause Society Certified Practitioners (MSCP) through The Menopause Society. MSCP certification means the provider has passed a rigorous examination and is committed to continuing education.
We can help you maximize your health and safeguard your well-being as you navigate the midlife years.
Women’s midlife health deals with the issues and symptoms people have as they approach menopause.
People have different definitions for when midlife starts. Is it a chronological age or a stage of life?
We think of it as a stage more than an age — although age is still a guide.
For example, the average age for menopause is 51. Most women will go through menopause between age 45 and 55.
At UPMC Magee-Womens, we focus on the health concerns of women who are experiencing perimenopause and menopause symptoms.
Perimenopause symptoms may start appearing in your mid to late 30s. However, women who had their ovaries surgically removed (surgical menopause) or who have conditions like premature ovarian insufficiency may experience symptoms even earlier. Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy may also lead to early menopause symptoms.
Doctors define menopause as going 12 months without a period. (If you get a period, the count starts over.)
But the signs that your body is heading in that direction can start up to 10 years before menopause, during a period of transition called perimenopause.
Any three of the following can be used to define perimenopause onset:
A midlife health specialist is a physician or advanced practice provider (CRNP or PA-C) who has received additional training in caring for patients in perimenopause and menopause. They can advise on treatments to relieve uncomfortable symptoms, including hot flashes, brain fog, and sleep problems.
You may be referred to a midlife health specialist if you are experiencing perimenopause or menopause symptoms that are affecting your day-to-day activities. A midlife health specialist will spend your entire appointment talking with you about your symptoms and the best course of treatment. You will have time to ask questions and address any concerns you have.
During your appointment, you may discuss:
Because not every patient experiences perimenopause and menopause the same way, we will provide a personalized plan based on your needs.
A midlife health specialist focuses on symptoms and conditions related to menopause and perimenopause. They can also refer you to other specialists as needed, including urogynecologists for pelvic floor issues, women’s heart or brain specialists, or behavioral health providers. Your concerns may be addressed in only one visit, or you can continue to see a midlife health specialist as your needs change. Some people see us a few times and then go back to their primary doctor. We can coordinate care with your doctor if needed.
You should continue to see your ob-gyn or primary care provider for ongoing health care, including routine women’s health exams, and coordinating preventative screenings like mammograms and Pap tests.
Before you schedule an appointment with a midlife health specialist:
By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2026-03-31.
