The Ultimate Credentials for Menopause Care: What to Look For
Introduction
Menopause is a deeply personal and transformative phase of life. Every woman’s experience is unique, and the care you receive should honor that individuality. The expertise and approach of the doctor you select will profoundly shape the quality of care you receive during this pivotal time. As you navigate this once-in-a-lifetime transition, choosing the right physician becomes one of the most important decisions for your health and well-being. Navigating that landscape will be easier if you understand what the titles, certifications, and their associated acronyms mean.
Given the deeply personal nature of menopause care, it’s important to understand what sets Dr. Shannon Cothran, a highly respected, board-certified gynecologist and founder of Meno-Start, apart as an expert in this field. Specializing in comprehensive menopause care, Dr. Cothran’s holistic approach includes personalized hormone therapy, mental health support, sexual wellness, and metabolism management. With decades of experience, Dr. Cothran tailors her care to meet each woman's unique needs, ensuring a thoughtful, individualized approach to this vital stage of life.
Among her many qualifications, Dr. Cothran holds several notable certifications and distinctions. Titles like MD are commonly known, but what about her other credentials, like FACOG or MSCP? Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP) is such an exclusive distinction that your search for menopause care should narrow down to this title alone.
Let’s demystify the education, certifications, experience, and acronyms—so you can make an informed decision when choosing a physician for your menopausal care.
Doctor of Medicine (MD) in Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN)
Dr. Cothran’s journey to becoming an obstetrician-gynecologist began at the University of Virginia, where she earned her chemistry degree in 1998. After graduation, she stayed at UVA for two more years to research polycystic ovarian syndrome, further deepening her interest in women’s health. In 2000, she entered Jefferson Medical College (now Sidney Kimmel Medical College) in Philadelphia, earning her medical degree as a doctor of medicine (MD).
After medical school, Dr. Cothran completed a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, where she became proficient in the practice of women’s reproductive, general gynecology, adolescent health, as well as pregnancy and birth. She graduated from residency in obstetrics and gynecology (OB-GYN) in 2008.
“Obstetrics offers the opportunity to be part of the best days of people’s lives and to support them through the worst days.” Dr. Cothran said in a recent Meno-Start blog interview. “Pregnancy and birth are one of the most intense parts of the human experience—what a privilege to be part of that!”
Her medical school education equips her to treat a wide range of conditions affecting menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, and the reproductive organs. Her knowledge of menstruation and reproductive health naturally extends to menopause care, making her a well-rounded and deeply informed specialist.
Membership in the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
In addition to her medical training, Dr. Cothran maintains an active membership in the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the leading professional organization for women’s healthcare. Founded in 1951, ACOG has more than 60,000 members and is dedicated to setting the highest standards of clinical practice and advocating for women’s health.
ACOG membership requires ongoing education and training, ensuring its members, like Dr. Cothran, stay current with the latest advancements in obstetrics and gynecology. This commitment to continual learning is vital for providing women with the best possible care during all stages of life, including perimenopause and menopause.
Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG)
Building upon her commitment to excellence, in 2010, Dr. Cothran became a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG), a title that signifies advanced expertise and board certification. To become a fellow, Dr. Cothran had to pass rigorous written and oral exams administered by an independent organization called the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). Less than 85% of candidates pass these exams, which test knowledge and clinical judgment in women’s health. Dr. Cothran recalls the challenge of the oral exam: “The expert panel review was intense, but my education and training prepared me well. I am incredibly proud to be part of this peer group.”
A physician who is an ACOG Fellow ensures that patients receive care informed by the latest medical guidelines and treatments. It’s a mark of dedication to the field and the ongoing improvement of women’s healthcare. Dr. Cothran invites women seeking menopause care to book a free tour at Meno-Start and see how her clinic in McLean, Virginia, is creating wellness plans that help women thrive.
Certified Menopause Practitioner by The Menopause Society
Among her most distinguished qualifications, Dr. Cothran earned certification in 2024 as a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP). The Menopause Society, formerly known as the North American Menopause Society, created the MSCP designation to establish a standard of excellence in menopause care.
As of January 2024, only 1,800 healthcare professionals worldwide have this certification. More specifically, as of October 2024, only 76 healthcare professionals in Virginia are publicly listed as MSCP practitioners. The MSCP credential is awarded to those who pass a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge of menopause management. Certified practitioners must recertify every three years through continuing education or passing another exam.
Why should this credential matter to you? Menopause specialization is crucial because, too often, the healthcare system overlooks the unique needs of women going through menopause. Many OB-GYN doctors aren’t equipped to spend the necessary time addressing menopause-related symptoms. Dr. Cothran is part of an exclusive group of MSCP professionals dedicated to providing personalized, holistic care to perimenopausal and menopausal women. At her Meno-Start clinic in McLean, she offers hormone therapy, mental health support, sexual health management, and guidance on metabolism changes, ensuring that her clients receive well-rounded care beyond symptom management.
In Summary
Choosing the right menopause specialist is crucial for your health and well-being during this life transition. Menopause care goes beyond symptom management and requires a holistic, personalized approach. As you search for a provider, understanding the significance of titles and abbreviations—such as MD, OB-GYN, FACOG, and MSCP—helps you find a physician with specialized training for menopause care.
Dr. Shannon Cothran’s extensive medical background, ACOG fellowship, and certification as a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP) make her exceptionally qualified. These credentials represent her dedication to staying at the forefront of women’s health. At Meno-Start, she offers comprehensive care, including hormone therapy, mental health support, and sexual wellness, ensuring individualized care beyond symptom relief. By recognizing the right qualifications, you can confidently choose a partner like Dr. Cothran to guide you through this critical stage of life. “It’s not just about treating symptoms—it’s about treating the whole woman,” she says. “My goal is to help my patients navigate this life stage with confidence and support.”
Schedule your free tour and meet Dr. Cothran.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Renier is a professional marketing consultant from Fairfax, Virginia. He is passionate about promoting the health and wellness space.