Menopause, weight, and metabolic health – considerations for a patient centered, multidisciplinary approach

Abstract

Purpose of reviewTo examine the complexity of weight and metabolic changes during the menopausal transition and propose a multidisciplinary care approach to support long-term metabolic health. Recent findingsMenopause, weight and metabolic health changes are influenced by many interplaying factors, and therefore, require a multipronged, multidisciplinary patient centered approach. This approach should start with a medical history and examination. Additional key components include: behavior change principles, mental health evaluation, gynecological care, nutrition, exercise recommendations and sleep care. In addition, when appropriate, weight loss pharmacotherapy and surgical options should be considered. Metabolic health is a long-term chronic process and improvement requires a chronic management approach.