450 Periods Later: Embracing the Menopause Transition
Just as we once transitioned into menstruation during our teenage years, we eventually transition out around ages 45-55. While we might not recall how turbulent those early hormonal changes were (or maybe our teenagers remind us!), this new transition brings its own set of physical and emotional shifts.
As ovulation ceases and hormones like estrogen decline, many experience a range of symptoms through perimenopause and menopause.
Common symptoms during perimenopause include:
Changes in menstrual cycle (longer, heavier, lighter, or more cramping)
Spotting
Low libido
Brain fog
Disrupted sleep
As menopause progresses, symptoms may expand to:
Hot flushes
Night sweats
Constipation
Brain fog
Headaches / migraines
Mood swings and irritability
Reduced libido
Dryness (skin, vaginal, lips, mouth, eyes)
Disrupted sleep
Changes in metabolism
Urinary frequency
Fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Hair thinning
Ongoing menstrual irregularities
How Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Supports This Transition
In TCM, we recognise the hormonal transitions taking place, but we focus on understanding and addressing your unique imbalances that can exacerbate your symptoms. Menopause is a highly individual journey, and your care should be just as personalised. My goal is to help make this transition as smooth, supportive, and health-promoting as possible, using a holistic, individualised approach.
The Role of Acupuncture in Menopause Care
Acupuncture influences multiple systems within the body by stimulating specific points that help regulate:
Hormone feedback loops
Nervous system activity
Circulation
Digestion
Overall endocrine function
Through targeted treatments, acupuncture can support changes in menstrual cycles, sleep patterns, metabolism, and nervous system regulation.
In combination with acupuncture, herbal medicine addresses deeper imbalances that give rise to these symptoms, providing a more complete and sustainable form of care.