Frequently Asked Questions

With hormone therapy, some symptoms may begin improving within a few weeks. The fuller response can take up to three months, and finding the appropriate treatment and dose may take longer.

Desirae reviews what has improved, what remains bothersome, and any side effects. Persistent symptoms may call for a treatment adjustment or evaluation for another cause. If you have concerns between appointments, contact her through secure messaging rather than waiting for your next visit.

For many healthy women under 60 or within 10 years of menopause, the benefits of hormone therapy outweigh the risks when treating bothersome symptoms. Whether it is appropriate for you depends on your medical history and the treatment being considered.

Desirae reviews your symptoms, menstrual history, medications, blood pressure, and relevant risk factors before recommending treatment. A history of certain cancers, blood clots, stroke, heart disease, liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding may make systemic hormone therapy inappropriate.

The type, dose, and route of treatment matter. Low-dose vaginal estrogen has a different risk profile from systemic therapy. Testing is used when clinically indicated; hormone levels alone cannot establish whether treatment is suitable.

We discuss your benefits, risks, and alternatives—including nonhormonal care—and reassess treatment over time.

Yes. Nutrition, movement, and sleep guidance are part of your care. When a supplement may address a specific need, Desirae explains its purpose, the supporting evidence, and any potential interactions with your medications.

Recommended supplements are available through our Fullscript store. Supplement quality and evidence of benefit are separate considerations; we discuss both rather than assuming that “natural” means safe or effective.

Yes, when clinically appropriate. GLP-1 management is available for an additional fee within your Comprehensive Membership or through a standalone GLP-1 Membership.

Desirae reviews your medical history, current medications, and treatment goals to determine suitability. Ongoing care includes monitoring your response, managing side effects, and adjusting treatment as needed.

You’ll receive instructions to access your secure patient portal, complete your intake forms, and schedule your first clinical appointment with Desirae.

During that visit, she reviews your history, symptoms, medications, and goals. Testing is ordered when clinically indicated. Together, you discuss treatment options and next steps, including whether any results are needed before starting treatment.

Follow-up visits and secure messaging support your care as treatment progresses.

Heat Wave Health currently provides care in Illinois, Oregon, and Washington. You must be physically located in an eligible state during your virtual appointments.

If you live elsewhere, contact us before enrolling to discuss eligibility. You can also request to join our state notification list by sending us a message through the website, and we’ll let you know when care becomes available where you live.

Heat Wave Health is a direct-pay practice. We do not contract with insurance companies or bill insurance for membership fees.

HSA or FSA funds may be used for eligible medical expenses. Confirm whether your membership qualifies with your account administrator before using these funds.

Comprehensive Membership requires a six-month commitment. This provides time for evaluation, treatment, and follow-up adjustments. The commitment supports continuity of care; it does not guarantee symptom resolution or a settled treatment plan within six months.

GLP-1 Membership is month to month. The appropriate duration of treatment is a separate clinical decision based on your response and ongoing needs.

No. Your membership covers clinical care and medication management. Medications are paid for separately, including GLP-1 medications.

Costs vary by medication, pharmacy, and insurance coverage. Desirae considers affordability when discussing treatment options and can explore alternatives when cost is a concern.

We care for women in perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause, including those seeking an initial evaluation or a review of treatment that has not adequately addressed their symptoms.

Care includes hot flashes, sleep disruption, mood changes, fatigue, sexual and vaginal health, metabolic and weight concerns, and bone health. We also evaluate concerns about severe premenstrual symptoms, including possible PMDD.

Desirae considers whether symptoms are hormone-related, whether another condition needs evaluation, and when care should involve another specialist. A separate GLP-1 Membership is available for patients seeking focused medical weight management.

Visits generally last 45–90 minutes, depending on the appointment type and your care needs. Initial evaluations allow time to review your history, symptoms, and treatment options. Follow-up visits focus on your response, questions, and any adjustments needed.

Comprehensive Membership includes your initial evaluation, individualized treatment plan, virtual follow-ups, prescription management, lab interpretation, and secure messaging with Desirae. Sexual health, skin and hair concerns, nutrition, and lifestyle guidance are included without separate membership fees.

GLP-1 Membership includes clinical evaluation and ongoing medication management, with follow-up to assess your response, address side effects, and adjust treatment.

Medications and lab testing are billed separately. We arrange testing at negotiated member rates, which may cost less than your out-of-pocket expense through insurance, depending on your coverage and deductible.