Naturopathic Solutions For Menopause

Menopause can be a tricky time for women.

Although many don’t love experiencing periods in the first place, the changes that come when they stop having them can also be uncomfortable.

Today we will look at some natural fertility health solutions which can help ease some of the symptoms of menopause.

Keep reading to learn more about menopause, or watch the following video to find out about natural treatments which can help reduce your menopause symptoms.

What Is Menopause?

Menopause is when a woman stops ovulating, and therefore stops having periods.

Typically the first period occurs around the age of 11 or 12, and continues throughout life until the early 50s – this is known as the reproductive period, in which it is possible for pregnancy to occur.

The term “menopause” can be used to describe any of the changes which occur around the time when menstruation stops.

What Are The Health Concerns Associated With Menopause?

Due to the decrease of estrogen which comes with menopause, there are a number of health concerns to be cognizant of.

These can include lower bone density, which can lead to osteoporosis and increased incidents of fractures, and heart disease.

In the past hormone replacement therapies were commonly used to counter this decrease in estrogen, however recently this has been found to not have an effect on heart disease and its use is less common today.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Menopause?

Signs of menopause include:

● Less frequent periods
● Vaginal dryness
● Changes in mood
● Weight gain
● Fatigue
● Hot flashes

Early onset menopause is becoming more common, however this is not a good things, as early menopause can mean you are more prone to osteoporosis due to less exposure to estrogen.

In these cases, natural products can be used to help balance hormones and delay menopause.

Do Menopause Symptoms Happen All At Once, Or Gradually?

For most people the signs of menopause are gradual and take place over time.

The effects of menopause can vary from person to person – for some the effects can greatly impact their lives, while for others it seems like no big deal.

Natural Solutions For Menopause

The symptoms associated with menopause can be managed with some natural remedies.

Keep reading to learn more about some of these solutions and the effects they have on the body.

1. Phytoestrogen

Phytoestrogens are compounds with can have the same effect on the body as estrogen which is produced by the body itself.

Because of this, they can help to rebalance hormones and help to reduce or relieve symptoms such as hot flashes, help prevent osteoporosis, and promote heart health.

Types of this include substances such as red clover, soy, flaxseed, and black cohosh.

2. Black Cohosh

A 2017 study in the Annals of Internal Medicine showed black cohosh to be effective for reducing hot flashes.

It can also be used to help treat moodiness, vaginal dryness, and excessive sweating.

Most studies on black cohosh are for periods of 6 months to 1 year, and it is not recommended for long-term use.

3. Vitex (Chasteberry)

A 2009 study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine looked at the use of Vitex (Chasteberry) with menopause-related complaints.

The study found pharmacological support for using Vitex to alleviate menopausal symptoms, and suggests that further studies should be done on its effects.

Vitex is said to help ease symptoms of menopause, including constipation, irritability, depression, migraines, and breast pain.

4. Vitamin E

In 2015, a study in the journal Minerva Ginecologica looked at the effects of sleep disturbances in peri- and post-menopausal women.

It was shown that the antioxidant effects of vitamin E may help to increase quality of sleep.

5. Fish Oils

A 2015 study in the journal Nutrición Hospitalaria looked at the relationship between menopause and cardiovascular diseases.

After 90 days, the group which was taking fish oil plus vitamin E showed a significant decline in total cholesterol and LDL (low-density lipoprotein or “bad” cholesterol), independent of the ethnicity of the study participants.

It should be noted that these findings are also relevant for use of vitamin E.

Questions? Ask Dr. JJ!

There are a lot of different supplements which can help to counter the effects of menopause.

How do you know which one is right for you?

What is the best way to tackle your specific symptoms?

Need help navigating the world of natural supplements?

I can help.

Get in touch today for a consultation with me, Dr. JJ, and we will discuss your specific needs and come up with a treatment plan tailored to you.