Perimenopause and Menopause
Are you struggling with menopause or perimenopause symptoms?
Dr. Louisa Barter at Thrive is a specialist in Menopause, Perimenopause and Female Health. As a GP and a member of the International and Australasian Menopause Societies and with diplomas in Sport & Exercise Medicine as well as Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare, Louisa provides expert, personalised care to help you feel your best.
Book your appointment with Thrive and start your journey to better health and well-being.
Understanding Perimenopause / Te ruahinetanga
Perimenopause, the transition phase before menopause, brings significant changes that can affect your physical and emotional well-being. Louisa offers comprehensive and personalised care to help wahine navigate this journey.
You can be confident in Louisa’s many years of experience, in female health. As a member of the Australasian Menopause Society and the International Menopause Society as well as member of the New Zealand College of Sexual and Reproductive Health - she provides tailored treatment plans that include lifestyle changes, dietary recommendations, medication and exercise prescriptions; helping you manage symptoms and allowing you to enjoy your best possible life.
Many women who have visited, have talked of a sense of relief and validation as Louisa takes a collaborative approach to care, listening to your concerns, understand your unique health needs, and working with you to create a personalised plan that fits your lifestyle. Together, you'll set achievable goals and make adjustments as needed, ensuring that you feel supported and empowered throughout your perimenopause journey. With a focus on open communication and mutual respect, Louisa is committed to helping you achieve optimal health and well-being.
A Member Of
Comprehensive Services Offered
Symptom Management: Tailored treatment plans to alleviate common perimenopause symptoms. Including prescription medication where appropriate.
Lifestyle Advice: Guidance on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes to support overall health.
Holistic treatment strategies: Option of in-house consultation with perimenopause and/or pelvic health physiotherapists.
Health Monitoring: Regular check-ups to monitor health changes and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Get in Touch
If you are experiencing menopause symptoms or signs of perimenopause and need expert guidance, Dr. Louisa Barter is here to help. Contact Thrive Sports Medicine to book an appointment and start your journey to better health today.
Signs of menopause
Menopause symptoms can vary widely from woman to woman, both in type and intensity, due to several factors including genetics, lifestyle, and underlying health conditions. Hot flashes, night sweats, and irregular periods are among the most common signs associated with this transition. However, some symptoms can be subtle or unexpected, leading to an often-overlooked impact on well-being. Hormone fluctuations—especially drops in estrogen—play a key role in these symptoms, affecting everything from temperature regulation to mood stability.
Beyond the more commonly discussed symptoms, menopause can bring about lesser-known changes, like "brain fog," where memory and focus seem to become muddled or easily disrupted. Other surprising symptoms include a change in skin texture, such as increased dryness or a feeling of itchiness, due to collagen loss associated with lower estrogen levels. Joint pain, especially in areas previously unaffected, can also arise, as estrogen has a protective effect on connective tissues, which lessens during menopause. Sleep disturbances are common and can lead to fatigue and irritability that compound these other symptoms, making everyday tasks feel more challenging.
Some women may also experience less common but equally disruptive symptoms, like burning mouth syndrome (a burning sensation in the mouth without an obvious cause) or episodes of dizziness or lightheadedness. Others might notice a sudden change in body odor or a heightened sensitivity to allergens. These obscure symptoms can add a layer of confusion and frustration, as they aren’t often discussed as part of the menopause experience. Understanding the range of symptoms and their causes allows women to be proactive, seeking appropriate support or treatment to help manage their menopause journey with greater confidence.
