Menopause, “the Second Spring”

Menopause is considered a significant and remarkable phase according to Chinese Medicine, often called the "Second Spring." This concept presents a unique opportunity for women to embrace the wisdom gained in the first half of their lives with renewed energy. By shifting their perspective, women can view this transitional time as a lively stage of life rather than something to fear or dread.

What is Menopause?

Menopause is a natural process in which a woman's menstrual cycle stops permanently after 12 consecutive months of no periods. It usually occurs at around the age of 51. The course leading up to Menopause is known as perimenopause, and it usually begins in a woman's late thirties. Physiologically, the menstrual cycle starts to decline as the levels of estrogen and progesterone decrease, and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) stop communicating with the ovaries. The hormonal shifts cause fewer menstrual cycles, eventually stopping altogether.

Chinese Medicine Theory

According to Chinese Medicine, women experience hormonal changes every seven years as a part of their reproductive cycle. Hormones are believed to be a delicate balance between Yin and Yang. Yang hormones, such as testosterone, are responsible for energy and metabolism. On the other hand, Yin hormones, like progesterone, are responsible for cooling and moistening the body. As we age, we lose these "cooling and moistening" aspects of the body, which leads to the typical menopausal symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Menopause

• hot flashes

• night sweats

• insomnia

• mood changes such as depression and anxiety

• hair loss

• poor memory

• brain fog

• tingling extremities

• skin changes

• decreased libido

• joint pain or stiffness

• osteoporosis

Acupuncture for Menopause

Any symptoms associated with Menopause can be effectively balanced and managed with Chinese Medicine to make this transitional phase easier on the body, mind, and spirit. Acupuncture offers a more supportive and beautiful understanding of Menopause so women feel healthy and vibrant during this transitional time.

Acupuncture as a Natural Alternative to HRT

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment option that many women consider for menopause symptoms. However, it can also have a variety of side effects, such as an increased risk of breast cancer, sleep issues, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. As a result of the less invasive and more cost-effective approach to managing the symptoms of Menopause, more women are turning to Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture.

Study on efficacy of Acupuncture for Menopause: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/9/1/e023637

Beyond relieving symptoms, Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine can improve women's health during and after Menopause. These practices aid in reducing stress, improving sleep quality, and supporting healthy digestion, immune function, and cardiovascular health.

Since Chinese Medicine is a holistic approach, your practitioner offers food therapy, lifestyle guidance, and Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine support in managing menopausal symptoms. If you need help with perimenopause or menopausal symptoms, reach out to Dr. Jen at 941-499-7775.