Menopause used to be a dreaded word. Not anymore! We will all eventually go through this transition and achieve menopause, whether you are a women or live in a body with a female reproductive system, whether you enter this stage of your life naturally or for medical or surgical reasons. Menopause is defined as the time in life that you enter 12 months after your last menstrual period. On average, women achieve menopause at age 51.

The journey through the pre-, peri- and post-menopausal transition usually takes many years and is more gradual than you might think. Typically, in your late thirties to mid-forties, you start noticing changes in your menstrual cycle and menstruation. Often, what used to be predictable now becomes more unpredictable. A wide range of different symptoms and discomforts can develop, some rather disruptive, others kind of worrisome. They range from the infamous hot flushes to changes in your body, possible weight gain, sleep disruptions, and often changes in your memory and mood.

Recognizing how the menopausal transition unfolds for you is a fundamental step to creating and maintaining good health now and later. Many of the menopause-associated manifestations you observe or experience can be relieved and supported with natural medicine. Lifestyle changes, nutrition strategies, supplements, botanical therapy and acupuncture can all be leveraged to help you master your menopause. These approaches lay the groundwork for good health in your golden years.

Hormone therapy was once widely used, then came into disrepute after some large clinical trials were conducted (esp. the Women’s Health Initiative study), but has in recent years regained interest and is again used more widely. Further research studies and more clinical experience now allow specialists to tailor menopausal hormone therapy to your individual needs and provide protection against health risks that increase in post-menopausal women. Bio-identical (AKA body-identical) hormone therapy was once on the fringes but is now more widely available and may be better tolerated.

We can advise and guide you regarding lifestyle strategies, nutrition protocols, botanical therapy, and acupuncture during the menopause transition. You will work with your medical gynecologist specializing in menopause support to consider and receive hormone therapy (if any) that is appropriate for you.