Menopause is defined as the cessation of menses because of a decrease in ovarian functioning and is a normal physiological occurrence. As age increases, the ovaries response to Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinising Hormone (LH) decrease. This results in a decreased follicular phase, fewer ovulations and ultimately a decrease in the production of progesterone. Estrogens ultimately decrease because of the lack of response by the follicules.
Symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, palpitations, headaches, dizziness, mood swings and decreased libido. Poor concentration, depression, pain on intercourse, urinary incontinence and joint pain are other symptomatic presentations of menopause.
Long term symptoms include osteoporotic changes to bone as well as cardiovascular disease. Allopathic treatment options include Hormone Replacement Therapy. Complementary medical treatment includes the use of homoeopathic remedies, herbal supplements, vitamins, essential fatty acids, phytoestrogens, bone nutrients as well as lifestyle and diet changes. Homoeopathic remedies focus of the whole person as well as the individuals own natural defense system and state of health.
By taking into consideration the symptoms that the individual is experiencing, a homoeopath is able to select a remedy that would match the individuals symptoms picture and as such help the bodies built-in ability to heal itself and maintain a healthy and vibrant state of well being. Herbal supplements assist menopausal symptoms by regulating hormone levels and when combined with bone nutrient supplementation may prevent osteoporosis. Vitamin E assists by correcting vascular dysfunction thus reducing the occurrence of hot flushes, palpitations and nervousness. Essential fatty acids are a vital part of hormone and cholesterol production which is useful in hormone regulation during menopause.
Phytoestrogens play an important role in slowing down bone break up and also have an estrogenic effect on the body. Another important role player in the management of menopausal symptoms is diet. It is important to reduce your salt, caffeine and alcohol intake and increase your vegetable, fruit, fish, nuts and seeds intake. Lifestyle factors to consider are decreasing exposure to stress, decrease your exposure to environmental toxins and increase regular weight bearing exercises.
It is of utmost importance to consult with your health care practitioner before making use of these supplements. This is particularly so if you are on any anticoagulation medication, anti-hypertensive medication, anti-epileptic drugs or experience hypothyroidism.