A common perception today is that menopause is a disease, rather than a natural process of the female reproductive cycle. This transitional period in a woman’s life can be used to reflect her sense of self, spiritual growth and renewal of purpose. Like most forms of transformation, there can be an array of mixed emotions and physical symptoms. For a lot of woman this can come at a time when their children begin to leave home, parents may become ill or pass away and personal relationships may need redefining.
Menopause is a natural process that the body undergoes when a woman’s menstrual cycle comes to complete cessation. The average age for the onset of Menopause can occur between the 45 and 55 years; however it can occur at earlier or older ages.
This new phase starts due to a lack of reproductive eggs in the ovaries. These eggs stimulate the production of oestrogen that controls the menstrual cycle.
There are three phases of menopause:
· Perimenopause: This is where the female’s periods start to become irregular; there can be changes in length of the cycle and possible increases in PMS associated symptoms.
· Menopause: Periods have completely ceased. Symptoms associated with this phase include; hot flushes, night sweats, headaches, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, urinary tract infections, depression, anxiety, insomnia, palpitations, muscle aches & pains and fatigue.
· Post Menopause: This phase indicates completion of menopause and associated symptoms.
Natural Suggestions to Help Manage Menopausal Symptoms:
· Phytoestrogen dietary sources: Flaxseed, fermented soy products (tofu, tempeh), hummus, alfalfa, red clover and garlic. These plant compounds have oestrogen-like constituents that mimic the human body’s natural hormones. Post menopausal women become more susceptible to bone related diseases such as osteoporosis. Oestrogen has been shown to protect bones from becoming porous. Phytoestrogens can help remove bad oestrogen from the body, which has been linked to illness such as breast cancer).
· Grapefruit: may inhibit the breakdown of oestrogen, therefore reducing menopausal symptoms.
· Lecithin Granules: 1 tbsp taken 2-3 x daily before meals. Helps to reduce hot flushes and related problems – emulsifies Vit. E
· Vitamin E (400IU): May help to reduce hot flushes & vaginal dryness
· Supplements of Vitamin D plus calcium and magnesium can help prevent osteoporosis and heart disease.
· Herbs: Many herbal preparations can be an excellent way to manage hormonal balance. Herbs can also help reduce symptoms of stress, irritability and fatigue. Speak to a qualified naturopath, herbalist or nutritionist to have a formula specifically made to suit your individual needs.
· Homoeopathic Aconite 6C: this remedy is beneficial for menopausal symptoms including; anxiety, depression, hot flushes and racy pulse/heart.
· Homoeopathic Calc Carb 6C: best suited for hot flushes with perspiration on face and hands, irritability, poor memory and weepiness.
· Homoeopathic Pulsatilla 6C: menopausal symptoms such as moodiness, weeping, needs to be with company, night sweats and urinary incontinence.
· Homoeopathic Sepia 6C: menopausal symptoms including fatigue, aversion to company, irritable, hot flushes and night sweats.
· Waste Elimination. Regular daily bowel movements are crucial to maintaining a balance throughout menopause.
· Exercise 30 min of exercise for at least 3 times per week can significantly reduce hot flushes. Weight bearing exercise helps to protect the heart and maintains bone density.
· Yoga can reduce stress, improve mood and improve metabolism. Specific yoga positions can help reduce hot flushes, mood swings, vaginal/urinary problems and other pains.
· Acupuncture: may help to reduce hot flushes as well as muscle aches & pain.
· It is important that you have regular pap tests, bone density tests and thyroid tests during and after menopause.
· Book Recommendation:
Before commencing any of the above recommendations, please consult a qualified health practitioner.
Reference List
1. Bach, P (2000). Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Penguin Putnam Inc.; New York
2. Bedson, P. (2005). The Complete Family Guide to Natural Healing. Hinkler Books, Victoria , Aust
3. Bone, K. (2003). A Clinical Guide to Blending Liquid Herbs. Churchill Livingston; Aust
4. Murray
5. Osieki, H. (2006). The Physician’s Handbook of Clinical Nutrition. Bio Concepts Publishing; Aust
Written by Vanessa Laird - Naturopath Calanna Pharmacy Woree
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