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Perimenopause & Menopause

Perimenopause and menopause represent a profound phase of transformation, where a woman's body transitions out of reproductive years. With this transition come hormonal shifts that can impact both physical and emotional well-being. Although each woman's experience is unique, common symptoms include hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disruptions. Embracing a naturopathic approach can help ease these changes, fostering a smoother and more balanced journey through perimenopause and beyond.

Image by Mark Basarab

What Are Perimenopause and Menopause?

Perimenopause typically begins in your 40s, marking the years before menopause when estrogen and progesterone start to fluctuate. Menopause officially behinds 12 months after your last menstrual period, usually within the 50s. These shifts in hormones can trigger a variety of symptoms as your body adapts to new levels of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.

Common Symptoms:

  • Hot Flashes & Night Sweats: Sudden heat waves and perspiration disrupt comfort and sleep. 

  • Mood Swings: Hormonal fluctuations impact mood and emotional resilience. 

  • Sleep Disturbances: Falling and staying asleep can become a challenge. 

  • Vaginal Dryness: Reduced estrogen may lead to dryness, discomfort, and pain during intimacy. 

  • Cognitive Changes: "Brain fog" and memory lapses can sometimes accompany these hormonal changes. 

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Why the Symptoms Occur

As estrogen levels drop, the body's ability to regulate temperature can fluctuate, leading to hot flashes and night sweats. Low estrogen can also affect serotonin and dopamine, our "feel-good" neurotransmitters, which can impact mood and sleep quality. Additionally, changes in hormone levels can impact collagen production, leading to drier skin and less elasticity, which may contribute to vaginal dryness and even joint pain. ​

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The Naturopathic Approach to Perimenopause & Menopause  

My approach to managing perimenopause and menopause is rooted in supporting hormone balance, reducing symptoms, and empowering you to embrace this transition with natural therapies and personalized care. 

Hormone-Balancing Nutrition 

  • Phytoestrogens: Foods like flaxseeds, tofu, and tempeh contain plant estrogens that mimic estrogen's effects, helping to reduce hot flashes and other symptoms. 

  • Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Berries, leafy greens, and nuts provide antioxidants to combat oxidative stress and support skin elasticity. 

  • Healthy Fats: Omega-3s from sources like fish and chia seeds support brain health and help maintain balanced moods. 

Herbal Medicine

Just to name a few as there are so many options:

  • Black Cohosh: Known for helping reduce hot flashes and night sweats. 

  • Vitex (Chaste Tree): Supports progesterone balance and may ease mood swings and irritability.

  • Ashwagandha: Adaptogen for stress resilience, helping to maintain stable energy levels and reduce anxiety. 

Acupuncture and Mindfulness

Acupuncture can be highly effective in regulating temperature control, promoting emotional stability, and improving sleep. Coupled with stress reduction, meditation, prayer, and mindfulness practices targets physical and mental balance. 

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Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) 

For those looking for a customized approach to hormone support, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) can be an effective solution. Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones are derived from natural sources and are chemically identical to hormones your body produces, including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. This allows for a more individualized, targeted approach. 

How BHRT Works

BHRT restores balance by supplementing estrogen, progesterone, and/or testosterone in a form that mimics your body's natural levels through detailed lab testing, BHRT can be tailored to your unique hormonal needs, reducing unwanted symptoms while promoting overall well-being. 

Potential Benefits of BHRT 

  • Reduces Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Helps stabilize body temperature, promoting comfort day and night. 

  • Improved Mood and Cognitive Function: Balanced hormones can support memory, focus, and emotional well-being. 

  • Enhanced Libido and Vaginal Health: Restoring hormone balance supports intimacy, reducing discomfort and enhancing sexual wellness. ​​

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Transitioning through perimenopause and menopause is a journey, and with the right support, it can be an empowering phase of life. Whether you are interested in BHRT, natural supplements, or simply need guidance through this transition, I am here to help you find the balance that works for you. Book a free discovery call, and let's work together to turn this time into one of strength, wisdom, and well-being. 

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