Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation, marking the end of a woman's reproductive years, and typically occurs between ages 45 and 55. It is a natural, normal transition with a phase called perimenopause, where symptoms begin gradually as hormone levels change. Common symptoms include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances, but experiencing them varies for each woman. Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and quitting smoking, can help manage symptoms, though some may benefit from medical treatments like hormone therapy or other options for severe symptoms, which require a doctor's consultation.
Board Certified in Obstetrics/Gynecology, Michelle Stoltzman, MD, sees gynecological patients in Rancho Mirage. Dr. Stoltzman completed medical school at Saba University School of Medicine,
Caribbean/Netherlands, and a residency program at Yale- New Haven Health, Bridgeport Hospital, CT.
As the daughter of a physician, medicine was always part of Dr. Stoltzman's life and she always wanted a career that focused on helping people. After college, she chose to pursue medical school. While in medical school rotations, she realized a career in OB-GYN was the perfect choice for her as it was centered on both medicine and surgery, as well as helping women in many phases of life. After completing residency in 2017, she worked in a high volume gynecologic surgical referral center, where she performed many minimally invasive surgical procedures. Later, she worked in a high volume obstetrical practice, including high-risk pregnancy.
She tries to establish a trusted environment for her patients. "Patients need to feel safe and that they can share very private and personal issues with me," states Dr. Stoltzman. "I take time to understand my patients' gynecological problems and focus on shared decision-making as treatment plans are established."
