Women’s Health Month: Understanding symptoms around perimenopause

GLENDALE, Ariz. (May 30, 2025) – As Women’s Health Month comes to a close, a Banner Health expert is raising awareness about how menopause affects women and uncommon symptoms they may experience.

Dr. Desiree Brotsky, an OB-GYN at Banner Thunderbird Medical Center, recently spoke on the topic, which is the transitional period leading up to menopause, or the natural end of menstruation. While many women experience common symptoms like hot flashes or night sweats, other symptoms like nausea or migraines that are less common may be overlooked or dismissed.

“It’s really important that women advocate for themselves and speak up about some of these less common symptoms,” Brotsky said. “Unfortunately, sometimes doctors overlook this issue with patients, but with more awareness and education we can improve how things are approached from all angles and make a positive impact on people’s wellness.”

With more and more people on social media speaking out about women’s health issues and sharing their perspectives, Brotsky said women shouldn’t feel alone in their struggles.

“Women have long dealt with having concerns dismissed by others, and this particular issue is no exception,” Brotsky said. "Now that more people are sharing their stories publicly, we’re beginning to get to a better place by helping other women feel empowered to take control of their health.”

About Banner Thunderbird Medical Center

Banner Thunderbird Medical Center in Glendale specializes in heart care, surgical services, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency and trauma care, behavioral health, cancer care, rehabilitation and pediatrics, including the West Valley’s only pediatric intensive care unit, pediatric Emergency department and Level III neonatal intensive care unit. Banner Thunderbird also operates a Level I Trauma Center for patients ages 15 and older. The hospital is part of Banner Health, a nonprofit health system with 33 hospitals in six states. For more information, please visit bannerhealth.com/thunderbird.