Menopause Specialist

Joslyn Gumbs, MD

OB-GYN located in Los Angeles, West Hollywood, CA

Dr. Gumbs offers women in the Los Angeles, CA, area the treatments and the medical advice they need to feel confident about the changes that occur during menopause, and she can also advise them of the options that are available that can help them stay healthy and feel their best.

323-302-8773

Menopause Q & A

I'm in middle-age and my periods has become irregular; does that mean I'm in menopause?

Not necessarily. Many conditions can cause periods to become irregular, including stress or illness and serious medical conditions. If your periods have become irregular, even if you're in middle age, you should see Dr. Gumbs to be evaluated to determine whether menopause is the cause of the irregularity. Strictly speaking, menopause is defined as going 12 months without a period as a result of natural hormone changes; the time before menopause when periods may be irregular is called perimenopause.

What are the symptoms of perimenopause?

Perimenopause symptoms occur as a result of fluctuations in the levels of estrogen and progesterone, and may include:

mood swings or depression
fatigue
night sweats
hot flashes
problems sleeping
aching joints
headaches
vaginal dryness
incontinence
changes in sex drive
irregular periods

Some women have several symptoms, while others may experience very few before their period ends.

What is hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

Hormone replacement uses drugs that work like the body's natural hormones to make up for the loss of estrogen and progesterone that occurs during menopause. The decline in these hormones has been associated with an increased risk of several health problems, and many women find they HRT helps rebalance hormone levels so they feel better.

How do I know if HRT is a good choice for me?

HRT has been linked with several side effects, and knowing what they are is an important part of deciding if you're comfortable with the treatment. The best way to decide if HRT might be a good choice for you is to schedule a consultation and evaluation with Dr. Gumbs. She can discuss the advantages and disadvantages so you can decide whether or not you'd like to give HRT a try.

Major Insurance Providers Accepted

We accept most insurance plans. Below is a short-list of just some of the plans we accept. Please contact our office if you do not see your insurance provider listed below.

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Testimonials

Words from our patients

"Fantastic bedside manner, little wait time and she indulges me with my ridiculous questions without judgement. I kind of just want to go back to hang with her."

Charmaki M.
"Awesome doctor! Im a first time mommy and my experience through out my pregnancy was great! You are in good hands with Dr. Gumbs!"

Verified Patient
"There was no wait time...I loved her personality and she answered all of my questions. She even thought of some follow ups and took initiative on my ongoing treatment."

Noga M.