Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, yet it remains widely misunderstood and often neglected in medical education. This lack of awareness has contributed to a shortage of healthcare providers specializing in menopause management, leaving many women without adequate support during this critical transition. “There are only seven certified menopause providers in the entire state,” says Dr. Ronni Farris.
Dr. Ronni Farris, based in Norman, Oklahoma, is one of these few certified menopause providers. With a strong background in gynecology, wellness, and aesthetics, Dr. Farris is committed to offering compassionate, personalized care to women navigating menopause. Her mission is to create a safe and inclusive space where patients receive customized treatment plans designed to enhance their health and well-being.
Dr. Farris’s journey into menopause medicine was driven by her recognition of the glaring gaps in education and available care. Seeing firsthand how many women struggled to find providers knowledgeable about menopause, she pursued advanced certification from The Menopause Society, making her a leader in the field.
The lack of specialized menopause care is a nationwide issue. A study published in Menopause, the journal of The Menopause Society, found that many residency programs do not include a standardized menopause curriculum, leaving new physicians unprepared to manage menopause-related health concerns.
This educational gap has direct consequences for patient care. Many women experiencing hot flashes, mood changes, sleep disturbances, or bone density loss struggle to find doctors who understand their symptoms and can offer effective solutions.
Dr. Farris has seen this firsthand. “Menopause is a critical phase in a woman’s health journey, yet so many women are left without guidance or support. My goal is to change that,” she shares.
Understanding Menopause Treatments
Menopause is not a one-size-fits-all experience, and neither are the treatments. Dr. Farris offers a variety of options to help women manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
HRT is one of the most effective treatments for managing menopause symptoms. It helps alleviate hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness while also reducing the risk of osteoporosis. However, it is not suitable for every woman, so Dr. Farris takes a personalized approach, assessing each patient’s medical history and individual needs.
Non-Hormonal Treatments
For women who cannot or choose not to use HRT, there are several non-hormonal options available. These include lifestyle changes, dietary supplements, and medications like SSRIs (typically used for depression but effective in reducing hot flashes).
Lifestyle and Wellness Approaches
Exercise, nutrition, and stress management play a crucial role in managing menopause symptoms. Dr. Farris emphasizes strength training to maintain bone health, a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and mindfulness techniques to help with mood swings and sleep disturbances.
Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Farris is an advocate for menopause education. She regularly shares insights and advice through her social media platforms, blog posts, and community events, aiming to break the silence surrounding menopause and encourage open discussions about women’s health.
Dr. Ronni Farris is at the forefront of this change, proving that menopause is not something women should endure alone. Through her expertise, compassion, and advocacy, she is helping women navigate this transformative stage with confidence and support.
Facebook and Instagram: @ronnifarrismd
