Naturopathic Management for Menopause


By Carolina Padilla, ND


enopause is defined as the ces- sation of your periods, which is caused by the body’s decreased production of sex hormones; estrogen and progesterone. This event could happen naturally by age or could be a result of sur- gical removal of the ovaries and uterus.


M


Most women will experience the be- ginning of peri-menopause and menopause generally in their late 40’s. Typical estrogen production will start decreasing around age 50.


There are three phases of meno- pause: 1) the climacteric phase in which the periods become irregular; 2) actual menopause which is the last menstrual cycle, diagnosed only in retrospect; and 3) post-menopause which begins one year after the cessation of the menses. As estro- gen decreases, symptoms associated with menopause may occur. Both the onset of menopause and side effects vary. For some, could be a gradual decline in the frequency and duration of menses, where others could be an abrupt cessation.


Women could experience one, some or none of the below symptoms as well as experiences that are not on this list.


• Changes in the menses: heavier or lighter, more or less frequent.


• Emotional/mood changes: more or less labile, mood may be unpredict- able, may be more or less optimistic.


• Body changes: more or less vaginal discharge, vaginal lining may become drier, skin may become drier, “hot flashes”, headaches, fatigue, weight changes, bone density changes.


• Infections: may be more disposed to vaginal or urinary tract infections.


26 Natural Nutmeg - May/June 2019


• Bone mass: the decrease in circulat- ing estrogen limits the body’s ability to remodel bones. This can result in a decrease of bone mass.


• Blood lipid levels: potential increase of both total cholesterol and LDL. These problems could be well man- aged with balanced nutrition and appropriate nutritional supplements.


• Low energy levels and hot flashes. Factors such as prior health history and


fitness levels may affect menopausal symp- toms and changes. Naturopathic medicine can offer you different types of modalities to help you cope with your health and nutritional concerns.


Naturopathic Medicine Therapies


Nutrition: Managing menopause us- ing dietary means points to emphasis on plant-based food for potential benefits of phytoestrogens, soluble fiber, and other components, which may help to add to the regulation of blood cholesterol. A special diet to prevent osteoporosis is probably the single most important factor in the management of menopause. A diet that is high in complex carbohydrates and low in fat, protein, and sugar is generally recom- mended. In addition, a naturopathic doctor can make specific diet recommendations tailored to a woman’s health issues and personal needs.


Nutritional Supplements: The need for certain minerals, vitamins, or glandu- lar supplementation may be indicated for some menopausal women. Use of these supplements will be determined from the overall evaluation of physical, emotional, and mental health. Your doctor should take a close look at mineral supplementation such as calcium, magnesium, manganese, and other trace minerals.


Botanicals: There are very specific


plant extracts that have the ability to restore normal hormonal balance. Women who have hot flashes or mood changes find that they feel dramatic improvements within 1-2 weeks with the use of plant extracts. A comprehensive plan using other naturo- pathic approaches is usually incorporated with the use of the herbal medicines.


Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a gentle,


natural, non-evasive and effective way to deal with the symptoms of menopause. It balances hormones, reducing hot flushes, insomnia and irritability and improves a better sleep.


Homeopathy: Homeopathic medi- cine is one of the most successful drugless therapies in the treatment of menopausal symptoms. If one has mental/emotional problems including depression, irritability, mood swings, anxiety, or anger, homeopa- thy can offer dramatic relief and stability with no side effects. Homeopathic medi- cines are made from plant, animal, and mineral substances and are completely drug free.


Hydrotherapy: Being one of the oldest


traditions in Naturopathic Medicine, hydro- therapy treatments improve circulation, reduce blood pressure, and improve sleep and digestion. Naturopathic doctors may also use hydrotherapy treatments to treat women with any chronic disease that be- comes worse during the menopausal years.


Physical Medicine and Exercise: In joint and muscle problems in particular, the use of naturopathic manipulation and physical therapy may be important. Weight-bearing exercise is one of the most important components in the prevention of osteoporosis. These recommendations are made on an individual basis. In addition, an exercise program may be part of the


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