Signs of Menopause and Hormonal Symptoms

The menopause is clinically said to have occurred when you stop having periods. Usually this is signalled by periods becoming less frequent over a few months or years until they stop completely. The process may begin sometime between 45 and 55 years old. During this time, a woman is said to be ‘perimenopausal’. The menopause is not an illness, however some women may feel like it is because they experience so many symptoms that affect their quality of life. It’s not just the unpredictability of their periods they have to contend with. Hot flushes, night sweats, difficulty sleeping, headaches and mood swings make life difficult and affect daily activities like work, family life and intimate relationships. These are some of the widely acknowledged symptoms of the menopause. Maybe you are feeling anxious, having palpitations, problems with memory and concentration…..? Maybe you are still in your thirties or early forties and struggling to cope with kids, work and all the other responsibilities you have, your periods have gone haywire and now you’re wondering if you’re starting an early menopause.

Or, maybe, your periods stopped a while ago and you thought you’d be feeling better by now but you’re still suffering. After the menopause, a woman is said to be ‘post-menopausal’. However, the symptoms may continue for 4-12 years.

Often the root cause isn’t the reproductive hormones themselves, but the ‘grandmother’ hormone that makes all steroid hormones. These include sex hormones like oestrogen as well as adrenal hormones such as cortisol which is involved in the stress response. Thyroid function is also influenced by these hormones, so you might wonder if you’re developing an under-active thyroid as well.

I am experienced in treating a variety of hormonal imbalances. I start by taking a full case history about your wellbeing and lifestyle, then I create a unique health programme designed especially for you. I suggest foods that will naturally support and nourish your body to reduce your symptoms. I also recommend targeted supplements that have been scientifically proven to regulate the hormones that you have out of balance. Different nutrients and herbs act on different hormonal-pathways. I don’t supply any products myself, so you can trust I am giving impartial advice. All products I recommend are available from reputable retailers.

Ladies usually only require 1 or 2 consultations with me to improve their hormonal problems, and leave feeling stronger, healthier and re-balanced, empowered to live life to the fullest.