Natural Remedies for Perimenopause
It can be challenging at times and sometimes you feel like giving up, but believe me, even with perimenopause, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Deciphering Perimenopause and What It Means
by Usha Panigrahi
Perimenopause is the time between menstruation beginning and ending. Just prior to menopause, a woman will enter perimenopause. This time frame will vary from one woman to the next.
It will all be affected by how many hormones her body is producing. On average, a woman’s cycle will be from 28 to 35 days. As a woman eases into menopause, her ovaries begin to change and her ability to release eggs is affected.
Thus, the woman’s cycle will vary widely from what was once the norm. For some, this may mean that she has heavier menstrual flow as well as other discomforting symptoms. for others, it may be that she has less menstrual flow.
Get to Know the Many Symptoms of Perimenopause
Such symptoms are due to the lowered levels of progesterone and estrogen, hormones in the woman’s body. As the cycles begin to stop, the woman may experience frequent periods. Her flow may be heavier and she may become stressed much easier.
Her breasts may become more tender and she may begin to suffer hot flashes, headaches, chills, flushed skin, night sweats, fatigue and even mood swings. Depression may set in as well as irritability and anxiety (Just ask my husband LOL)
Short term memory may also be affected as well as a lowered sex drive and vaginal dryness. This is all due to the lowered levels of hormones in their body. Many women start to retain water and gain weight more rapidly. It’s not unusual for women to suffer from incontinence during this phase of their lives.
Remedies to Relieve the Most Debilitating Effects
The overall effect may be debilitating for some women. As their body adjusts to the reduced levels of hormones, they may begin to feel stressed and suffer from distress. Hormone replacement therapy may help in some of the cases. However, it’s important to keep in mind that synthetic hormones may also make a woman more likely to suffer from a heart condition, breast cancer or blood clotting issues.
Estrogen receptor modulators or SERM drugs may help in some of the cases, however, there are always side effects to consider. Here is a list of some natural remedies that may be a much safer alternative for most women.
Hot Flashes: This sudden rush of heat makes a woman feel hot all over. It comes on suddenly and can be combatted by wearing lighter clothing from cotton or breathable fabrics. Sip on cold water and consider a cold compress. Avoid caffeinated drinks as well as alcohol and spicier foods. These may cause further flushing. I had to cut way back on soda.
Take in More Omega 3s: Omega 3 fatty acids are an ideal addition to any woman’s diet. Soy and leafy greens are also important as they have phytoestrogens that may help to lower the chance of hot flashes.
Relaxation: Along with perimenopause, anxiety is another issue. It may result in mood swings and an overall feeling of anxiousness. Meditation, as well as yoga and deep breathing exercises all, can help to combat the effects of anxiety. Many women find it more challenging to sleep at night when they are in this transitional phase of life. If they nap during the day, they may not be able to sleep at night so they have to learn how to relax and allow their bodies to focus on the priority of sleeping properly at night.
Herbs: As the estrogen and progesterone decline, the women begin to feel more drained. Herbs can help to increase their overall feelings of health. Cornus, poria, Rehmannia and wild yam are all great for helping to promote healing. Mountain bark and Alisma are also ideal as herbal teas to help women feel better.
Herbal teas are ideal for helping women to feel more relaxed. Dong Quai, chaste berry, ginseng (Siberian) and gingko biloba, as well as evening primrose and black cohosh, are ideal for teas to soothe and relax a woman during this transitional phase. Other teas may also come from Peruvian maca root. Always check with a doctor before using any herbal supplements or tea.
A well-balanced diet and getting plenty of rest as well as lowering the intake of alcohol and processed foods is also a great plan. Stay hydrated and prepare mentally for the transition as well.
It can be challenging at times and sometimes you feel like giving up, but believe me, even with perimenopause, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
References:
https://www.womentowomen.com/menopause-perimenopause/five-steps-for…
http://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/alternative-treatment
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