Throughout their lives, women go through multiple stages of hormonal changes – puberty, perimenopause, menopause – and then spend the remainder of their lives post menopausal.
Naturopathic medicine can be a helpful approach in supporting women’s hormonal health during these stages by addressing any imbalances and providing support to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms, bringing you back to your natural balance.
To say women’s hormones are complex would be a massive understatement.
Oh Puberty!
This is one of the biggest changes in your hormonal life and it can feel like you are a stranger in your own body. This can be a challenging time for young people (and their parents!).
Do you wish you had a better understanding of what is happening in your body (or your child’s) and why you are feeling the way you are feeling? This can be a confusing time and you may have many questions. Dr. Joyce and Dr. Graham offer a safe space for conversation and can guide you to the best resources to help you find the answers you need.
Dr. Joyce and Dr. Graham are passionate about educating young people and providing answers to their questions about common topics such as acne, menstrual cramps, fatigue and mood changes. They provide information about what can be expected and discuss treatment options such as nutritional support and supplements, as well as conventional medicine approaches.
Next up = Perimenopause!
Perimenopause is the stage of life somewhere between the ages of 40 and 55, before we enter the official world of menopause.
You may be thinking ‘I’m only 40, can I really be in perimenopause?’
Yes, you can! About 20% of women are perimenopausal at the age of 40, and this number grows as we get closer to 50 years of age.
This phase of hormone fluctuation is mainly due to more inconsistent ovulation and can lead to symptoms ranging from changes in our menstrual cycle, increased PMS, fatigue and poor sleep patterns, low libido, mood changes, hot flashes and night sweats.
Are you unsure if you are in perimenopause and what to do about it?
Let’s take out the guesswork. Dr. Joyce and Dr. Graham will take the time to do a full assessment of your symptoms, answer your questions and educate you on what to expect.
Menopause time!
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Weight gain
- Memory Problems
Even though this list can appear quite overwhelming, it is important to remember menopause is not a disease; it is a natural and powerful stage of our lives. Your hormones have changed dramatically and there are good and valid reasons you are feeling the way that you are feeling.
You should also know there are a wide range of both natural and medical options at your disposal for menopausal symptoms, so there is no reason for you not to feel better.
Dr. Joyce and Dr. Graham believe their role is to provide you with the options, information and tools to make the best decision for your personal health.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hormone therapy prescribing is a unique part of Dr. Joyce’s and Dr. Graham’s practice and allows an individualized approach to your healthcare.
Hormone therapy can play a vital role in the transition into menopause and the post menopausal years. It can help with the frustrating symptoms of irregular menses and PMS, as well as allow women to achieve relief from such symptoms as hot flashes, night sweats, sleep concerns and vaginal dryness. HRT is also prescribed as a preventative approach to the impacts of hormone decline as it works to decrease the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
Are you a good candidate for hormone replacement therapy?
Dr. Joyce or Dr. Graham will conduct a thorough assessment to determine if this method of treatment is a good option for you. If it is, Dr. Joyce or Dr. Graham will provide all the information you need to make an informed choice.
