One of the most significant – and sometimes problematic – phases in a woman’s life is undoubtedly menopause or cessation of menstrual bleeding and the years that follow (post-menopause). The terms climacteric period or change of life are often used synonymously to denote menopause and actually encompass the entire period of time when hormonal functioning undergoes change. This process usually begins in the mid-forties, before the actual cessation of monthly bleeding (menses) occurs and may last a number of years. At Diamond Institute we tailor evaluation and treatment approaches to individual concerns.

The Diamond Institute Menopause Program - Services for Evaluation and Education

Initial Consultation and Ongoing Monitoring
Diamond physicians obtain general and gynecological medical histories to understand patient symptom concerns and needs. Physical examination includes Pap smear and breast examination. We discuss relevant medical issues and recommend appropriate testing. During the initial consultation the patient also meets with a nurse who coordinates all tests and follow up for her.

Imaging Services
Pelvic Ultrasound – This study to determine the state of the menopausal uterus and ovaries is valuable for identifying fibroids as well as benign or malignant ovarian conditions. We provide necessary physician referrals and monitor all detected issues on an ongoing basis – including after surgical treatment.

Bone Densitometry – Because bone loss often accelerates at menopause onset and even earlier, Diamond performs non-invasive dual photon bone densitometry studies of the spine and hip at our facility to detect progression and monitor treatment stabilization of the condition after medical intervention.

Mammography and Breast Ultrasound Referral – Diamond can refer patients to excellent facilities for studies, integrating results into the complete patient picture.

Complete Hormone Evaluation and Endocrine Studies
Hormonal blood test results reflect residual function of the ovaries as well as the thyroid gland and other hormones, and helps determine if the patient has completed menopause transition. For patients who have encountered – or are at risk for – gynecological tumors, we conduct tumor marker evaluation and follow-up.

Education and Treatment Decisions
Educating Patients – Each Diamond Institute patient presents a unique combination of personal history, menopause symptoms, and concerns. Our goal is to provide comprehensive and personalized education about this important life stage – including clinical findings, available medications, exercise programs, nutritional counseling, emotional counseling, and other topics emanating from our interaction with the women who come to Diamond at this crucial transitional time in their lives.

Informed Decisions – We recognize that treatment decisions depend on our patients’ knowing themselves and our recognition of personal decision-making factors, especially involving the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). We encourage questions and input from every patient and evaluate ongoing effectiveness of treatment plans along the continuum of peri-menopause, menopause, and post-menopause.