Menopause is an often overlooked and undervalued stage in a woman’s life, and frequently not accepted widely as a topic to openly discuss. Woman can experience shame and fear while attempting to understand what is occurring – especially when they recently felt to be in good health.
In this article you will learn:
When does menopause begin?
What symptoms can occur?
Can menopause be a good thing?
How can a Naturopath help with the transition?
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When Does Menopause Begin?
The beginning of perimenopause can occur between the age of 45-55, with the average age being 51. Menopause indicates the end of menstruation (monthly periods), where a woman has had no periods for 12 consecutive months. The body’s production of oestrogen and progesterone is reduced after the ovaries have ceased ovulating due to the depletion of eggs. This prevents the lining of the uterus from forming, and then subsequently shedding (menstruation).
The initial transitional chapter can also occur prematurely as a result of premature ovarian insufficiency (genetic factors), medical or surgical intervention (e.g. radical hysterectomy with removal of the ovaries), or radiation / chemotherapy.
What Symptoms Can Occur?
During these years a woman’s body is going through many changes as it transitions (perimenopause) from a reproductive to a non-reproductive state – hormonal fluctuations can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:
Hot flashes and/or night sweats
Tiredness and low energy
Weight gain and slowed metabolism
Mood swings
Decreased sex drive (libido)
Forgetfulness
Insomnia and difficulty sleeping
Dry skin, mouth and eyes
Headaches
Hair thinning or loss
Sore or tender breasts
Aches and pains
Heart palpitations
Discomfort with sexual intercourse
Vaginal dryness
Increased urgency to urinate & urinary leakage
Can Perimenopause Be A Good Thing?
As Naturopaths, our goal is to aid a woman to understand and acknowledge this transition, and to support the move with a greater acceptance of themselves and their body.
Perimenopause can therefore be celebrated and considered an empowering chapter as a ‘biological portal transporting you into a new phase of life’. With an increase in life expectancy, a woman experiencing menopause at 50 years of age could approximately face another 30 years of post-menopausal life. Looking after your health during this transitional time is essential to good health for the years to come.
How Can A Naturopath Help With The Transition?
At The Good Health Room, we can help to identify the underlying causes of perimenopause symptoms. We will create a specific treatment plan for you that includes:
Blood tests and/or functional test
Dietary and lifestyle changes
Vitamin, mineral and herbal therapy supplements
to bring the best health outcomes long-term.
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If you are experiencing symptoms of perimenopause, we encourage you to contact us. We can help you to feel better, educate, and empower you to have a more comfortable transition through perimenopause.
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