Our Approach
Menopause looks and feels different for everyone, but navigating it shouldn't be confusing or isolating. Our approach is grounded in patient education, guided by shared and informed decision making, and pulls from a toolbox of evidence-based care that prioritizes your health history, lifestyle, and wellness goals. RutterMD was built on the belief that just because your ovaries have retired doesn’t mean the rest of you has to slow down or that your quality of life has to suffer. Because menopause matters.
There often isn’t enough time during a traditional medical visit to address these concerns thoroughly, and many excellent, well-meaning providers simply aren’t trained or comfortable managing perimenopause or menopause. Women are left feeling dismissed or inadequately treated. This practice fills those gaps in care and adds the expertise of a menopause-certified physician who really gets it. Whether you’re seeking relief from every classic symptom in the menopause playbook or trying to make sense of changes you’re not sure are related, we will validate your experience and tailor a plan for your individual needs.
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From your first visit, you'll receive thoughtful, comprehensive care from the convenience of your home or office. I take the time to get to know you, your wellness goals, and treatment preferences. Effective medicine starts with a provider who truly listens and asks the right questions in order to fully understand a patient's whole health picture and guide what comes next.
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With so much misinformation and conflicting data out there, I know how challenging it can be to figure out fact from fiction. Partnering with RutterMD will empower you to make informed decisions that are rooted in evidence-based medicine and collaborative care, not TikTok trends and Insta reels. When it comes to menopause, there is no one-size-fits all approach, and your treatment plan may change as your needs evolve.
The Process
Before your visit:
Individualized, effective care starts with a detailed look at your history. You'll complete the intake forms in advance so that we can make the most of our time together. ​
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New patient consultation, 60 minutes:
During this comprehensive visit, we will address any relevant health history and take a deep dive into your concerns. Depending on where you are in the transition, and your symptoms, we may cover a broad range of subjects including changes in your period, sleep patterns, personal habits, mood, metabolism, libido, and whether it feels like the Sahara down there.
In the majority of cases, hormone testing is not necessary to diagnose (peri)menopause or to monitor treatment. Labs will be ordered if needed to help guide your evaluation.
Follow-up visit, 30 minutes:
After our initial consultation, you will be encouraged to schedule follow-up visits for continued support, symptom management, and lifestyle guidance as needed. If we provide a new prescription for you, a follow-up appointment will be required to assess your response, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, and issue refills.
Your care plan may include:
â—† Evidence-based treatment options, such as FDA-approved hormone (HRT) and non-hormone medications when appropriate, based on your health history and symptoms
â—† Lifestyle guidance regarding sustainable changes in nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and more to achieve long-term health benefits
â—† Referrals to trusted, menopause-informed providers such as nutritionists, therapists, pelvic floor PTs, and others as needed
â—† Collaboration with your in-person care team for physical exams or additional diagnostics, if indicated
â—† Educational resources and easy access 24/7 to your care plan summary in the patient portal
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