Menopause is the time in a woman's life when her period
stops. It usually occurs naturally, most often after age 45. Menopause happens
because the woman's ovary stops producing the hormones estrogen and
progesterone.
A woman has reached menopause when she has not had a period for one year. Changes
and symptoms can start several years earlier. They may include
Change in pattern of
periods (shorter or longer, lighter or heavier, or more or less time between
periods.)
Hot flashes (sometimes called hot flushes),
night sweats
Trouble sleeping through the night
Vaginal dryness and lowered libido
Mood swings, feeling crabby, or crying
spells
Trouble focusing, "fuzzy
thinking," or forgetfulness
Bladder infections and/or frequent urination
According to Chinese Medical theory, menopause
occurs when a woman's body begins to preserve blood and energy in order to
sustain her vitality and allow for the maximum available nourishment for her body, especially her kidneys. Thus, in the Chinese
Medicine, menopause is seen as true change in life from mother to enlightened
and wise being. Acupuncture
and herbs can alleviate many menopausal symptoms by rebalancing the hormonal system,
especially headaches and migraines, hot flushing (hot flashes), heavy flooding
periods and back pain. If you would like to pursue this form of Traditional
Chinese medicine treatment or information, please contact Xiaoyan.
Menopause
