Menopause does not happen all at once. For most women, the process begins years earlier with gradual hormonal changes commonly referred to as perimenopause, the transition leading up to menopause. These early signs can be subtle and are often easy to understand or dismiss as stress, aging, or lifestyle-related changes.

Because symptoms vary widely from woman to woman, many are unsure whether what they are experiencing is normal or something worth addressing. Understanding the early signs of menopause, often called perimenopause, allows women to take a proactive approach to symptom management and long-term health.

Dr. Leveno, OBGYN at Medical City Plano, Texas works closely with women navigating these hormonal shifts, helping them recognize early changes and explore care options that fit their stage of life.

What Are the Early Signs of Menopause?

The early stage of menopause, often referred to as perimenopause, occurs when estrogen and progesterone hormone levels begin to fluctuate but menstrual cycles have not completely stopped. This phase can begin in the late 30s or 40s and may last several years before menopause is reached.

Because periods may still occur, many women do not immediately associate symptoms with menopause. Instead, changes are often attributed to stress, sleep disruption, or a demanding lifestyle. Recognizing this phase as part of the menopausal transition provides clarity and context for symptoms that may otherwise feel confusing.

Early menopausal symptoms are not limited to hot flashes. Many women notice a combination of physical, emotional, and cognitive changes that develop gradually over time.

Common early signs include:

• Irregular or skipped menstrual periods
• Hot flashes or night sweats
• Sleep disturbances or difficulty staying asleep
• Mood changes or increased irritability
• Fatigue or low energy
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
• Weight changes or slowed metabolism
• Changes in libido

When these symptoms are viewed together, they often point toward early menopause rather than isolated health concerns.

Benefits of Recognizing Menopause Early

Recognizing the early signs of menopause allows for better symptom management and stronger long-term health support. Hormonal changes during this phase influence more than menstrual cycles alone. They can affect multiple systems in the body, often in ways that feel disconnected at first.

Early awareness may support:

• More effective symptom management before changes become disruptive
• Protection of bone density and cardiovascular health
• Improved metabolic balance and weight stability
• Better sleep quality, mood regulation, and mental clarity

Addressing symptoms early does not always require medication. In many cases, it begins with education, monitoring patterns over time, and supportive care tailored to the individual. Early recognition provides flexibility and allows women to explore options gradually rather than reacting once symptoms escalate.

During routine visits, Dr. Leveno encourages women to talk openly about changes that may feel unrelated at first. Sleep quality, energy levels, mental focus, and cycle patterns all offer valuable insight into hormonal health when viewed together.

As he often tells patients, “Your body is not failing you. It is communicating. When we pay attention early, we have more options and better control over how we feel moving forward.”

When Is It Time to Talk to My OBGYN?

Many women wait until symptoms become overwhelming before bringing them up. However, earlier conversations often lead to better outcomes. Tracking changes in cycles, sleep, mood, or energy can help identify patterns that point toward hormonal shifts rather than temporary stress.

Signs it may be time to talk with your OBGYN include symptoms that persist for several months, interfere with daily life, or feel progressively harder to manage. Even changes that seem mild can offer important clues when viewed together. Discussing them early allows for clearer guidance, reassurance, and thoughtful planning.

Personalized Support Through the Menopause Transition

Every woman experiences the menopausal transition differently. Genetics, health history, stress, and lifestyle all influence how early symptoms appear and how disruptive they feel. This is why personalized care is essential during this stage.

Dr. Leveno takes time to evaluate symptoms within the context of overall health and long-term wellness goals. This individualized approach helps women feel supported, informed, and confident as they move through early menopause and beyond.

If you are noticing changes such as irregular periods, disrupted sleep, mood shifts, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating, it may be time to take a closer look.

Contact Dr. Leveno's office at Medical City Plano to discuss early menopause symptoms and explore care options.

Women and Heart Health: Early Awareness Matters More Than You Think

Heart disease is often discussed as a men’s health concern, yet it remains the leading cause of death for women in the United States. What makes women’s heart health especially complex is that risk factors and symptoms do not always look the same as they do in men. Many warning signs are subtle, easy to dismiss, or mistaken for stress, aging, or hormonal changes. That is why early awareness and personalized preventive care play such an important role in long-term wellness.

As an OBGYN practicing at Medical City Plano, Dr. Leveno regularly works with women navigating hormonal shifts, reproductive health, and the physical changes that occur across different stages of life. These same factors often intersect with cardiovascular health in ways many women do not expect.

Why Does Heart Disease Often Goes Unnoticed in Women?

One of the biggest challenges in women’s heart health is recognition. Symptoms are not always dramatic or centered around chest pain. Instead, many women experience signs that feel vague or unrelated to the heart, which can delay care and early intervention.

Commonly overlooked symptoms:

• Persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest
• Shortness of breath during routine or familiar activities
• Jaw, neck, or upper back pain without a clear cause
• Nausea or a general feeling of being unwell

Because these symptoms can appear gradually or come and go, they are often attributed to stress, lack of sleep, or the demands of daily life. Hormonal changes add another layer of complexity. Estrogen plays a protective role in cardiovascular health, and as levels shift with age, pregnancy, or menopause, heart disease risk can quietly increase. Without proactive screening and open conversation, these changes may go unaddressed for years.

The Role of Hormones, Pregnancy, and Life Stages

Women’s heart health cannot be separated from their reproductive and hormonal history. Pregnancy-related conditions such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes are now known to increase future cardiovascular risk. Menopause brings additional changes, including shifts in cholesterol patterns, blood pressure, and metabolism.

Dr. Leveno often emphasizes that these milestones are not just reproductive events. They are important indicators of long-term health. Understanding how hormones influence the cardiovascular system allows for earlier intervention and smarter preventive strategies.

In routine OBGYN visits, discussions about cycles, symptoms, and life transitions create valuable opportunities to identify potential heart health risks before they turn into larger problems.

How Does Stress Quietly Impact the Heart?

Chronic stress disproportionately affects women and can place ongoing strain on the cardiovascular system. Managing work responsibilities, caregiving roles, family obligations, and personal health often leaves little time for rest or recovery. Over time, sustained stress can influence heart health in measurable ways.

Long-term stress may cause:

• Increased inflammation throughout the body
• Elevated blood pressure over time
• Hormonal imbalance that affects metabolism and vascular health

Preventive care is not about adding more appointments to an already full schedule. It is about making existing healthcare visits more meaningful by connecting symptoms, lifestyle factors, and long-term risk.

As Dr. Leveno explains, “I want women to know that their body is always giving them information. When something feels off, even if it seems small, it is worth paying attention to and talking about.”

Personalized Prevention Makes the Difference

There is no single checklist that defines heart disease risk for women. Family history, hormonal changes, stress levels, lifestyle habits, and overall health history all play a role. Because these factors vary from person to person, personalized care is essential.

During visits, Dr. Leveno weaves heart health conversations naturally into women’s care. Discussions often focus on everyday indicators such as energy levels, sleep quality, weight changes, blood pressure trends, and how patients feel during normal activities. These insights help guide recommendations that are practical, realistic, and tailored to each woman rather than based on one-size-fits-all guidelines.

Preventive care centers on early awareness and thoughtful monitoring. Identifying risk sooner allows women to make gradual, sustainable adjustments and track changes with clarity, instead of waiting for symptoms to worsen or become disruptive.

Taking Women’s Heart Health Seriously at Every Age

Heart disease develops over time and can be influenced by multiple life stages. Early adulthood, pregnancy years, and the menopausal transition all affect long-term cardiovascular health. Addressing heart health during routine OBGYN visits helps women stay proactive, informed, and supported at every age.

Recognizing that women’s symptoms may look different and that hormones play a central role leads to more effective care. The focus is not fear or alarm, but confidence built through understanding and early attention.

If you have noticed unexplained fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, or pain that feels unusual, it may be worth taking a closer look. Women deserve care that reflects how their bodies function and change over time.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Leveno at Medical City, Plano, Texas to discuss heart health, hormonal changes, and preventive care tailored specifically to women.

Facing gynecologic surgery can feel overwhelming, whether it’s for fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or another condition. While surgery is often necessary for health and wellbeing, understanding what to expect and how to prepare can make the process less stressful and improve recovery.

Dr. Leveno, an experienced OBGYN at Medical City Plano, Texas, emphasizes that preparation, clear communication, and personalized care are key to a successful surgical experience. From pre-operative planning to post-surgery support, taking an active role in your care helps you feel informed, empowered, and ready.

Understanding Your Procedure

The first step in preparing for gynecologic surgery is understanding your specific procedure. Whether it’s a minimally invasive laparoscopy, a hysterectomy, or another gynecologic surgery, knowing the purpose, benefits, and risks helps set realistic expectations.

During a consultation with Dr. Leveno, he reviews the procedure in detail, explaining what will happen before, during, and after surgery. This includes anesthesia, estimated recovery time, possible side effects, and steps to support healing. Having this knowledge reduces anxiety and allows patients to make informed decisions about their care.

Pre-Operative Preparation

Proper preparation before surgery can make a significant difference in both the procedure and recovery. Key steps include:

• Medical Evaluation: Your OBGYN will review your medical history, medications, and any chronic conditions to ensure you’re ready for surgery.

• Lab Tests and Imaging: Blood work, ultrasounds, or other imaging may be necessary to help plan your procedure accurately.

• Medication Management: Some medications, supplements, or herbal remedies may need to be paused before surgery to reduce bleeding risks or complications.

• Lifestyle Adjustments: Simple changes, like quitting smoking or improving sleep and nutrition, can enhance healing and reduce complications.

Dr. Leveno works with each patient to create a pre-operative plan tailored to their health and surgical needs. Having clear instructions and knowing what to expect helps patients feel more confident going into surgery.

Planning for Recovery

Recovery planning is just as important as preparing for the surgery itself. Understanding the timeline, physical limitations, and support you may need at home can help you avoid setbacks and complications.

• Rest and Support: Plan for plenty of rest in the days and weeks following surgery. Enlist help from family or friends for daily tasks, meals, and childcare if needed.

• Follow-Up Care: Attend all post-operative appointments to monitor healing, remove stitches or staples if needed, and address any concerns.

• Activity and Exercise: Gradually return to normal activity as advised by your physician. Overexertion can delay healing, while gentle movement may help prevent blood clots and support circulation.

• Pain Management: Take prescribed medications as directed and communicate with your OBGYN about any pain that feels unusual or severe.

Dr. Leveno ensures each patient has a clear recovery plan, with guidance on what’s normal, what to watch for, and when to seek help. This proactive approach supports both physical and emotional wellbeing during the healing process.

The Role of Communication

Open, honest communication with your healthcare provider is essential before, during, and after gynecologic surgery. Sharing your questions, concerns, and relevant medical history allows Dr. Leveno to personalize your care, anticipate potential challenges, and provide clear guidance throughout the process.

Dr. Leveno encourages patients to discuss everything from anesthesia options and pain management to recovery expectations and lifestyle considerations. This dialogue helps you understand what to expect, reduces uncertainty, and builds confidence heading into surgery.

Patients who feel heard and informed are better prepared to follow pre- and post-operative instructions, which can support a smoother recovery, reduce complications, and improve overall satisfaction with care. By fostering open communication, Dr. Leveno ensures patients feel supported, reassured, and actively involved in their surgical journey.

Personalized Surgical Care

Gynecologic surgery is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Dr. Leveno provides personalized care that considers each patient’s medical history, lifestyle, and specific surgical needs. By tailoring the surgical plan, pre-operative instructions, and recovery guidance, he helps patients feel supported at every step.

From routine procedures to more complex surgeries, Dr. Leveno emphasizes safety, comfort, and patient education. This holistic approach ensures patients have the tools and knowledge needed to navigate surgery confidently.

Take the Next Step

Facing gynecologic surgery doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With preparation, clear guidance, and personalized support, you can approach your procedure with confidence and focus on recovery and wellbeing.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Leveno at Medical City Plano to discuss your procedure, review next steps, and receive care tailored to your needs.

Pregnancy is one of the most remarkable journeys a women's body can take. From the very first signs of life to the final weeks before delivery, your body is undergoing profound changes. While it can feel overwhelming at times, practicing thoughtful self-care can make a meaningful difference in your comfort, energy, and overall health.

Practical Self-Care Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of incredible change, and having guidance from an experienced physician can make all the difference. Dr. Leveno, an OBGYN at Medical City Plano, Texas, helps expecting mothers navigate this journey with personalized care and support. Self-care during pregnancy isn’t about perfection—it’s about making consistent, supportive choices that honor your body and the new life you’re nurturing. Even small adjustments to daily routines can have lasting benefits for both you and your baby.

Prioritize Rest and Quality Sleep

Sleep is a cornerstone of prenatal health. As your body works harder to support your growing baby, it needs more restorative rest. Fatigue, hormone changes, and physical discomfort are common, but creating a sleep-friendly environment can help. Consider gentle bedtime routines, limiting screen time before bed, and using supportive pillows to reduce pressure on your back and hips.

Persistent fatigue may signal underlying issues such as anemia, gestational diabetes, or other conditions that benefit from early intervention.

Nourish Your Body with Balanced Nutrition

A nutrient-rich diet is essential for supporting both maternal health and fetal development. Focus on a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Staying hydrated is equally important, as dehydration can contribute to fatigue, swelling, and headaches.

Prenatal vitamins play a vital role in filling nutritional gaps, particularly folic acid, iron, calcium, and DHA. Dr. Leveno offers sessions with a wellness coach in office to expecting mothers to tailor nutrition plans that fit individual health needs, ensuring both mother and baby get the support they require.

Stay Active with Pregnancy-Safe Movement

Physical activity during pregnancy offers numerous benefits, including improved mood, better sleep, reduced swelling, and increased stamina for labor and delivery. Activities like walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and gentle stretching can help maintain strength and flexibility while reducing stress on joints and ligaments.

It’s important to consult with your OBGYN before starting or continuing an exercise routine during pregnancy. Dr. Leveno guides patients on safe ways to stay active based on their trimester, health history, and any pregnancy-specific considerations.

Manage Stress and Emotional Health

Pregnancy brings a mix of excitement, anticipation, and sometimes anxiety. Managing stress is essential for both maternal and fetal wellbeing. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, prenatal yoga, journaling, or connecting with supportive friends and family can help you feel calmer and more grounded.

Regular prenatal visits with Dr. Leveno also provide an opportunity to discuss emotional health. Mental wellbeing is a critical component of prenatal care, and addressing concerns early can improve outcomes for both mother and baby.

Keep Up with Regular Prenatal Visits

Routine prenatal appointments are essential for monitoring the health of both mother and baby. These visits allow your OBGYN to track growth, detect potential complications, and provide timely guidance on lifestyle, nutrition, and exercise.

Dr. Leveno takes a personalized approach to prenatal care, ensuring every patient feels supported and informed throughout pregnancy. Whether it’s reviewing lab results, addressing symptoms, or preparing for labor, having a trusted physician makes a meaningful difference in overall comfort and confidence.

Personalized Care and Support from Dr. Leveno

Pregnancy is unique for every woman, and having an experienced physician guiding you can make a meaningful difference in both comfort and confidence. Dr. Leveno, an OBGYN at Medical City Plano, provides personalized prenatal care tailored to your needs.

Some of the ways he supports expecting mothers include:

• High-Risk Obstetrics: Monitoring and managing pregnancies that require extra attention to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

• 3D Ultrasound Imaging: Offering detailed, non-invasive imaging to track fetal growth and development throughout pregnancy.

• Postpartum Support: Guidance on mental health and recovery after delivery, including help for postpartum depression.

• Women’s Wellness and Hormone Support: Addressing hormonal shifts during pregnancy and beyond to support overall health and wellbeing.

By combining these services with practical guidance on rest, nutrition, safe exercise, and stress management, Dr. Leveno helps expecting mothers feel informed, supported, and empowered throughout their pregnancy journey.

He also provides gynecologic care for vaginal health and sexual wellbeing, fertility guidance for women planning future pregnancies, gynecologic surgery and contraceptive counseling to support family planning decisions.

Small Steps Make a Big Difference

Even small, consistent self-care efforts—rest, nutrition, safe activity, stress management, and regular prenatal visits—can support a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy. By partnering with an experienced OBGYN like Dr. Leveno at Medical City Plano, you’re investing in your wellbeing and your baby’s health. Schedule a prenatal appointment with Dr. Leveno for guidance and support through every stage of your pregnancy.

Hormones are powerful chemical messengers that influence nearly every system in the body. From metabolism and mood to sleep, energy, and reproductive health, balanced hormones help the body function smoothly day to day. When those hormones fall out of balance, symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly—and often in ways people don’t immediately associate with hormone health.

For many adults, hormone imbalance is an underlying factor behind persistent fatigue, weight changes, mood shifts, or changes in libido. Identifying these patterns early and working with a qualified physician can significantly improve overall wellbeing.