Menopause Clinic
All women eventually experience the ending of their reproductive years as their menstrual cycle ceases. The hormonal changes that occur at this time can cause many different types of discomfort when our bodies are not in balance. Some problems women deal with at this time include hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, vaginal dryness, headaches and stress. There has been much discussion about the use of soy products to ease the symptoms related to menopause.
Soy contains phytoestrogens that are help to alleviate symptoms related to the drop in oestrogen that a woman’s body experiences at this time. But it may not always be appropriate.
In addition to supplementation with soy, there are many ways to balance the body and reduce discomfort during this natural change. In Chinese medicine, the symptoms associated with menopause are considered to be a result of a decline in the yin functions of the body.
Yin is the nourishing, moistening, restorative, structural energy of the body. In this way, it is closely related to the feminine hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone. The bone loss that some women experience at this time would also be related to yin deficiency and to deficiency of the Kidney in Chinese medicine. The Kidney in Chinese medicine relates to the health of the bones.
While many women seek out hormone supplementation, acupuncture and herbs, along with lifestyle and dietary changes can alleviate menopausal symptoms naturally.