#United States #Seattle #Menopause Awareness #One Medical #Erin Duralde

Demystifying Perimenopause and Menopause: A Comprehensive Guide

As October marks Menopause Awareness Month, it’s crucial to address the reality faced by millions of women in the United States. Each year, around 2 million women enter perimenopause, with an additional 1.3 million transitioning into menopause. This means roughly 3.3 million women experience significant health changes annually, yet disturbingly, almost half do not seek help.

The Importance of Seeking Care

According to research from the National Institutes of Health, while 85% of women encounter menopause symptoms, 75% of those who do seek care remain untreated. This underscores a critical gap in women's health care concerning menopause and perimenopause, which all too often remains unaddressed. Symptoms associated with this phase of life extend far beyond hot flashes and can include mood swings, sleep disturbances, and fatigue. Unfortunately, societal stigma and embarrassment often prevent women from discussing their symptoms, leading to prolonged suffering.

Addressing Knowledge Gaps in Care

Dr. Erin Duralde, Medical Director of Women’s Health and Menopause Care at One Medical, emphasizes the need for integrated care during these transitions. Most primary care providers lack proper training in menopause management, leading to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatments. Dr. Duralde works to dismantle common misconceptions surrounding menopause while advocating for better education and training for healthcare providers.

Bridging the Care Gap

One Medical's mission is to provide comprehensive support to women navigating perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Duralde utilizes human-centered, compassionate approaches to treatment, aiming to eliminate barriers to proper health care. She believes education is essential in empowering women to understand their bodies and seek the care they deserve.

A Leader in Women’s Health

Dr. Duralde holds a wealth of experience, having previously worked at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. With a medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco, and a Master of Public Health from Harvard, she is passionate about improving women’s quality of life during these significant health transitions. Her expertise also includes research on barriers to care and productivity in women's health.

Comprehensive Care with One Medical

One Medical redefines primary care, providing flexible healthcare solutions that cater to individual needs. With over 150 locations across the U.S., the facility offers same-day appointments and telehealth options designed to fit busy lifestyles. Their innovative approach integrates high-quality, personalized care with digital tools to create a supportive environment for women.

Accessibility to Care

By accepting numerous insurance plans and offering on-demand virtual care, One Medical broadens access to essential health services. Patients can experience continuous support through their mobile app, ensuring they are never alone during this critical time.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As we observe Menopause Awareness Month, it is vital for women to feel empowered to discuss their health concerns openly. By seeking informed, compassionate care, women can navigate the challenges of perimenopause and menopause with confidence. It’s time to bridge the gap in women's health and foster an environment where every woman can receive the care they need for a smoother transition into this new phase of life. With healthcare providers like Dr. Duralde leading the charge, advancements in menopause management are not just promising but are paving the way for future generations of women.