Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood has launched Menopause Care Services.

This new initiative aims to inform, educate, and provide care for people who may be affected by menopause now or in the near future, with a special focus on Black women, Latina women, transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, and women with low incomes.

“Menopause Care is an essential service that is often overlooked, diminished, or entirely ignored especially in communities where access to reproductive care is limited,” says a release from Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood, which has locations in Albany, Hudson, and Troy.

Menopause is a natural phase of life that typically occurs in the late 40s or early 50s, but it can happen earlier. Beyond changes in menstrual cycles, menopause can bring a variety of symptoms, both physical and mental, that can significantly impact quality of life. However, discussing menopause can be difficult, and many people may hesitate to bring it up with their primary care providers, the release says.

“Menopause is a time of significant change, both physically and emotionally,” Bree Samson, director of Clinical Services and Gender Affirming Care at Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood, said in the release. “We want our patients to feel supported and heard during this transition.

“Our approach is holistic and tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, providing a wide range of options from lifestyle changes to medical treatments. It's important that patients know they're not alone in navigating this stage of life, and we are here to provide expert, compassionate care every step of the way.”

Treatment options for menopause vary. For those experiencing symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, or mood changes, menopausal hormone therapy can be effective. For those dealing with vaginal dryness, topical treatments like gels, creams, or vaginal tablets are available.