Menopausal Transition & Naturopathic Approach Written By Dr. Seyedeh Neda Mozaffari, ND
Perimenopause, or menopausal transition, is the period that links women's reproductive age and menopause. It usually begins in mid-to-late 40s and ends with menopause. The average age of menopause is generally in the early 50s, although this age may vary among women.
Menopause is considered the absence of menses for 12 months. Please note that some women may experience early menopause due to a history of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, surgery (ovaries removal), the presence of some autoimmune diseases, a family history of early menopause, etc.
Menopause is considered the absence of menses for 12 months. Please note that some women may experience early menopause due to a history of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, surgery (ovaries removal), the presence of some autoimmune diseases, a family history of early menopause, etc.
Diagnosis of Perimenopause:
Perimenopause is usually diagnosed symptomatically. However, your healthcare provider may order some blood tests and imaging to make a diagnosis. These blood tests may include but are not limited to thyroid function tests and female reproductive hormone tests.
Some common perimenopausal symptoms include but not limited to:
• Menstrual irregularities
• Hot flashes
• Vaginal dryness
• Mood swing
• Nervousness
• Heart palpitation
• Joint pain
• Insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep)
Some health conditions may have similar symptoms to perimenopausal ones, including but not limited to:
• Thyroid diseases
• Low blood sugar levels
• High levels of the hormone prolactin
What are the Most Common Complications of Menopause?
• Gaining Weight
• Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
• Change in sexual function
• Urinary incontinence
• Increased risk of osteoporosis
What Are Some Possible Lifestyle Modifications and Preventive Strategies to Reduce the Risk of Complications Associated with Menopause?
• Maintaining healthy body weight, BMI range: 18.5–24.9
• Regular exercise, including weight exercise
• Annual blood work check-ups, and physical exams through your primary healthcare provider
• Regular PAP test screening through your primary healthcare provider, according to your age and risk factors
• Mammogram screening check-ups as recommended by your primary healthcare provider, according to your age and the risk factors
• Try to eat an anti-inflammatory diet
• Remove refined sugar and unhealthy fats from your diet
• Manage your sleep difficulties, mood swing, and stress
• Consult with your primary healthcare provider and a pelvic physiotherapist if you are experiencing urinary incontinence
Naturopathic Approach to Perimenopausal Symptoms:
Naturopaths educate women about how to support their bodies during the perimenopausal transition, manage perimenopausal symptoms, and reduce the risk of some common and possible complications of menopause. NDs apply collaborative naturopathic approaches based on their patients health history, family history, and current medications. They prescribe individualized treatment plans, which may include some diet & lifestyle modifications, TCM diagnosis and acupuncture, and prescribing dietary herbal and nutritional supplements if needed. NDs may refer their patients to their family physician for further evaluation and ruling out other conditions through imaging studies and some specific blood tests, if the need arises.
References:
Sherry Sherman, S. S. (2005, December 19). Defining the menopausal transition.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16414321/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20353397
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20537472/Kathryn Ann Martin, JoAnn E. Manson, K. A. N. J. E. M. (2010, December 1). Approach to the Patient with Menopausal Symptoms.
Https://Academic.Oup.Com/Jcem/Article/93/12/4567/2627244.
Medical Disclaimer:
Please note that the above information (including the image) is written for educational purposes only and should not replace any medical advice from your primary healthcare provider. Also, this information should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment.