Our Mission:

To provide a holistic, multidisciplinary resource for patient care, research and education of menopausal women.

Our Goals:

A multidisciplinary center located at Greenspring Station consisting of gynecology, endocrinology, breast health, urogenital health, mental health, sexual health, osteoporosis and nutrition.

To access state of the art diagnostic and therapeutic modalities.

To meet the high expectations of an increasingly educated population of women.

To promote quality of life for breast cancer survivors and for women in perimenopause and menopause.

Menopause...

Menopause is a normal biological event that occurs in all women. The average age of menopause in the United States is 52 years old; however, this age varies and can occur between 40 and 60 years old. It is diagnosed by loss of menstrual periods for 12 months and elevated FSH levels.

The onset of menopause is affected by genetics, illness, age of onset of menstruation, smoking, hysterectomy or artificially induced menopause (such as chemotherapy for breast cancer).

Perimenopause or the "climacteric" is the phase which usually precedes the menopause and usually lasts three to five years. In some women this process can occur suddenly due to surgery, medical treatment or even natural causes. During this time a woman can experience irregular menses, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, mood swings, depression, insomnia, hot flashes or night sweats. These symptoms are due to a decrease in estrogen and progesterone production by her ovaries.

We are beginning to understand the effects that estrogen and progesterone have on the reproductive system, urinary continence, bone and mineral metabolism, cardiovascular function and memory and cognition.

Treatments are available for these symptoms, but they are not for everyone and must be discussed individually with a provider in menopause health. These treatment options include: hormone replacement therapy, lower dose oral contraceptive pills, life style changes, phytoestrogens and supplements.

Women today are living longer and more productive lives. It is important for each individual to understand what can be done to promote optimal health during the peri- and post-menopause. It is during these times that women are at increased risk for osteoporosis, coronary heart disease, breast cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Prevention and early detection of these conditions are essential.

For consultation appointment, please contact:

Dr. Wen Shen
Menopause and Women’s Health Center at Johns Hopkins
Johns Hopkins at Greenspring Station
10755 Falls Road / Suite 420
Lutherville, MD 21093
410-583-2749