After talking with many women about where they are in their cycle of being a woman, I have learned that not everyone knows the meaning of Perimenopause and Menopause. Perimenopause is the time in which your body begins it transition into menopause. Its symptoms can last from 2-8 years as your estrogen levels rise and fall, causing irregular menstruation, hot flashes, night sweats and changes in sleep patterns. For some women perimenopause starts when they in their 40s, while others notice a change in the mid-30s. It is always helpful to know your mother’s menstrual history so you have an idea of what could happen to you.
As you transition through the changes there are many natural treatment options for your symptoms. Herbal remedies can be helpful for hot flashes and insomnia. Herbal tinctures work best when they have been individually tailored and take into account more than just the premenopausal symptoms. Herbs can help to balance out estrogen, progesterone and testosterone in the transitioning woman. Herbs also work amazingly well to calm mood swings. Diet and exercise also play a large factor in symptom relief. Dietary needs change and nutritional deficiencies can make symptoms worse. One of the best things you can do is to maintain a positive outlook on things, knowing that perimenopause is only a transition.
Once you have gone an entire year without a period you are now considered post menopausal and you have successfully transitioned through perimenopause. Being post menopausal does not mean your life is over, in fact some women feel very librated with the cessation of their periods. Other women unfortunately continue to suffer with symptoms that started during perimenopause. Some women complain of vaginal dryness and urinary tract infections, which can all be common menopausal symptoms. Again there are treatment options which are suitable for each individual. What might have worked for your friend might not work for you and vice a versa. Using naturopathic medicine, I am able to get to the root cause of your symptoms and help to restore health by treating the cause.
Once you are post menopausal it is very important to get any unexplained “periods” or bleeding checked out by your doctor. It is better to be cautious and get things properly examined, than to just dismiss it as nothing. Unexplained bleeding can be benign or the first sign of something more serious. Continue to receive your pap screenings along with yearly mammograms. Talk with your doctor about your pap screening schedule to make sure you are being properly screened.
Enjoy the transition, the freedom, and the wisdom that comes as you continue to grow as a woman. Menopause is not the end of life, rather it is another beginning. If you are suffering with hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, insomnia, or any other uncomfortable symptoms, know that there are many natural options to help you. Call Revolutions Natural Medical Solutions 916.351.9355 and we can discuss possible treatment options for you.
Anita M. Larrow, ND