Perimenopause can feel like a storm of unpredictable symptoms — hot flashes, mood swings, weird periods — you name it. But eventually, this phase winds down, and menopause officially begins.

Of the many questions and concerns that come up surrounding menopause, weight gain is probably the biggest. More specifically, you may wonder: does progesterone cause weight gain during this phase?

Your vaginal pH level is super important for vaginal health overall, and it may begin changing during perimenopause or menopause.

Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get nearly enough attention: vaginal dryness. It’s super common, especially during perimenopause and menopause, but that doesn’t make it any less uncomfortable.

Can acupuncture help with hot flashes, night sweats, and other disruptive symptoms?

In each installment of Ask a Doctor, your burning questions about hormones, menopause symptoms, sleep, sex, and more are answered by doctors who specialize in treating women in midlife.