Posts Tagged: Perimenopause

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How Acupuncture Supports Bladder Control and Pelvic Floor Health

Urinary Incontinence (UI) can happen for a variety of reasons, but in my practice I most commonly see it affect postpartum patients and those entering menopause. It can also be an issue during pregnancy itself; symptoms tend to increase with each trimester as pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor increases. Those who have had previous pregnancies also have a higher risk for UI. In postpartum patients, those who delivered vaginally have a higher risk for postpartum UI compared with surgical delivery, and those who experienced 3rd or 4th degree tear also have a higher risk.

The research really illustrates why it’s important not to ignore the issue- 3 months postpartum anywhere from 17-31% of new moms experience urinary incontinence, and if untreated 38% still had symptoms a whopping 12 years later (source). That’s the minority, but not by much! You can see why it’s so important to seek out help for the issue absolutely as soon as possible- the sooner you can get help after the issue the begins, the better your chances of overcoming it.

Why Does Postpartum Urinary Incontinence Happen?

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You Can’t JUST Get Rid of Your Hot Flashes: Why A Holistic Approach Is Better During Perimenopause

When I set out to write this article, I intended to pick one symptom of perimenopause and give tips on managing it. But then I thought, “You can’t just pick one symptom and  get rid of it alone. What women need is help with minimizing hormonal fluctuations so that ALL of the symptoms improve”.

So that’s what I’m doing in this article. It’s not a totally exhaustive guide to all herbal remedies or possible treatments, but I’ll give you ideas that are easy to implement, that are backed by studies and that will help you now as well as 5 years down the road. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is always an option from your doctor, but for some women it doesn’t make sense and others would prefer to avoid medications.  These ideas are a holistic approach to hormone-balancing and can help you feel like yourself again. Read more

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Sweet Relief: Acupuncture and Herbs for hot flashes and other perimenopausal symptoms

Perimenopause is defined as the length of time between the reproductive years and menopause. Pretty vague, huh? The symptoms, however, are quite well-defined. Hot flashes, night sweats, forgetfulness, anxiety and/or depression, weight gain and even migraines can all happen during this period of time. Periods often become irregular and very heavy. Perimenopause can last anywhere from 3.5 to 14 years, so if a woman’s symptoms are pronounced, it can greatly interfere with normal daily activities. If you are one of the unlucky few whose symptoms last upwards of 14 years, finding a treatment that can provide natural relief from perimenopausal symptoms is crucial. Recent research shows that the earlier these symptoms begin, the longer they tend to last (source).

A common misconception about perimenopause is Read more