Perimenopause,
Also known as menopausal transition,
Is the time between a woman's reproductive age and menopause.
It usually starts in your mid-to-late 40s and lasts till menopause.
The typical age of menopause is in the early 50s,
though this varies amongst people.
Menopause is defined as the lack of menstruation for 12 months.
Please keep in mind that certain women may have early menopause as a result of
a history of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, surgery (ovaries removal),
the existence of certain autoimmune illnesses, a familial history of early menopause,
and so on...
Perimenopause Diagnosis
Perimenopause is usually diagnosed based on symptoms.
Your doctor may, however, conduct blood tests and imaging to make a diagnosis.
Thyroid function tests and female reproductive hormone testing are examples of blood tests that may be performed.
Among the most frequent perimenopausal symptoms are, but are not limited to:
• Abnormal menstrual cycles
• Severe hot flushes
• Dryness of the cervix
• Changes in mood
• Nervosity
• Palpitation of the heart
• Joint discomfort
• Insomnia (inability to fall or stay asleep)
Some medical diseases can mimic perimenopausal symptoms, including but not limited to:
• Thyroid disorders
• Low blood glucose levels
• Prolactin levels are elevated.
What Are the Most Common Menopausal Complications?
• Weight Gain
• Higher risk of cardiovascular disease
• Alteration in sexual function
• Incontinence of urination
• Increased osteoporosis risk
What Are Some Possible Lifestyle Modifications and Preventive Strategies to
Reduce the Risk of Menopausal Complications?
• Maintaining a healthy body weight (BMI: 18.5-24.9)
• Regular physical activity, including weight training
• Annual blood work and physical examinations through your primary healthcare provider
• Routine PAP test screening through your primary care provider,
according on your age and risk factors
• Mammogram screening check-ups as advised by your primary care provider
based on your age and risk factors
• Try to follow an anti-inflammatory diet.
• Cut back on processed sugar and bad fats in your diet.
• Manage your sleep issues, mood swings, and stress.
• If you have urine incontinence, speak with your primary care physician and
a pelvic physiotherapist.
A Natural Approach to Menopausal Symptoms:
Naturopathy teaches women how to support their bodies during the perimenopausal transition,
manage perimenopausal symptoms,
and lower the risk of several common and sometimes fatal menopausal problems.
Based on their patients' health history, family history, and current medications,
ND's use collaborative naturopathic techniques.
They create tailored treatment regimens that may include dietary and lifestyle changes,
TCM diagnosis and acupuncture,
And the use of dietary herbal and nutritional supplements as appropriate.
References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16414321/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20353397
To schedule an appointment with our Naturopath Doctor,
please visit www.evolutionofwellness.ca or call 249-880-4075.
Dr. Seyedeh Neda Mozaffari,
ND Hours of Operation:
Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.