Fibroids During Peri+Menopause

Fibroids are tumors made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue that develop in the uterus. It is estimated that 70 to 80 percent of women will develop fibroids in their lifetime — however, not everyone will develop symptoms or require treatment.

Perimenopause means “around menopause,” and is the time when a woman’s body begins a natural transition to menopause. This marks the end of the reproductive years, and women start this phase at different ages. Signs like irregular menstrual cycles may start in the 40s, but some women notice changes as early as their mid-30s.

A woman with fibroids may find herself concerned how going into Pausy seasons will affect those fibroids.

I want you to know how to approach your Pausy seasons if you have fibroids. The journey isn’t the same for all women.

There are other factors at play when it comes to developing fibroids, like race, genetics and lifestyle:

• Fibroids seem to disproportionately affect the African American population, although researchers understand little about what causes this disparity. Black women have fibroids at younger ages, and they’re also likely to have more or larger fibroids, along with more severe symptoms.

• Heredity has an impact too, because if your mother or sister had fibroids, you’re at increased risk of developing them.

• Lifestyle factors like obesity can lead to propensity for fibroids, as can having a diet higher in red meat and lower in green vegetables, fruit and dairy. One study found that vegetable and fruit intakes and occupational intensity played positive effects on uterine fibroids.

Cancerous fibroids are very rare. Because of this fact, it’s reasonable for women without symptoms to opt for observation rather than treatment.

Studies show that fibroids grow at different rates, even when a woman has more than one. They can range from the size of a pea to (occasionally) the size of a watermelon.

Types of fibroids

Now that you know what a fibroid is, it’s time to discuss types of fibroids. Along with the size and number of fibroids, the type can also affect treatment recommendations. The three main types of fibroids include:

• Subserosal fibroids: These are the most common fibroids. They can push outside of the uterus into the pelvis. Subserosal fibroids can grow large at times and sometimes have a stalk that attaches to the uterus (pedunculated fibroid).

• Intramural fibroids: These fibroids develop in the muscular wall of the uterus.

• Submucosal fibroids: These fibroids are uncommon. They can grow into the open space inside the uterus and may also include a stalk.

The prevalence of clinically symptomatic uterine fibroids (UFs) peaks in the perimenopausal years and declines following menopause. A large cohort study of California teachers found that among 1,790 women, over 30% of newly diagnosed UFs were between the ages of 45–49 years.

There are many options to help reduce fibroids and alleviate the pain. Consequently, the general approach when women are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms is to wait for menopause, but this is not always the answer for all women. We must remember that women are different and will have a different fibroid experience when entering the Pauses.

If symptoms affected the quality of life in this stage, hysterectomy was once the treatment of choice. Today, however, we know there are many other options both medical and holistic for women to consider. Long gone are the days of automatically having to resort to hysterectomy. However; if this is your choice it is to be respected.

Doctors have found that fibroids are dependent on the ovarian hormones of estrogen and progesterone. Fibroids have more estrogen receptors and progesterone receptors than normal tissue. Recent findings also show that estrogen increases the expression of progesterone receptors and their sensitivity to tissue like fibroids.

Since abnormal uterine bleeding accounts for more than 70% of all gynecological consultations in perimenopause and post-menopause, and that there are a multitude of conditions that may cause this bleeding, it’s important that a thorough evaluation and diagnosis is carried out on women with this symptom. Then a treatment plan can be determined in conjunction with the patient. 

There are various treatments worth discussing with your Physicians and Holistic Practitioners:

Physicians-

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a non-surgical treatment that uses x-ray technology to deliver an embolic agent to the arteries that supply blood to the uterus. This blocks the blood flow to the fibroids and eventually causes them to shrink. UFE is done as an outpatient procedure, does not require a long recovery, and allows for fertility preservation.

Hormone Therapy (HT) can be a consideration with strong advisory.

Other Options-

Address and reduce inflammatory markers. Pain is a key sign that inflammation is present. Dietary changes are needed. One of the most inflammatory foods is sugar.

Look at key blood-building nutrients such as iron, vitamin C, vitamin B12

These options are not exhaustive. Consult your Practitioner for a plan that is specifically designed for you and your needs.

Be patient. Do your research and ask questions when you consult with your team. As we mature we want to experience the joy of ease and relief. This is still possible. Have hope!

Be Well and Be Whole.

Citations:

Practitioner LaShanna Moore

UCLA Health

National Library of Medicine

Snag These Groceries for Happy Hormones

Alrighty! Let’s hear it for happy hormones *crowd roars* We’re talking about hormones holistically on this blog post. It’s not just about harmonizing the hormones for the sake of a healthy weight but for overall balance, peace and well-being inside and out. Remember, hormones don’t work in isolation. Hormones are chemical messengers from the body that have a LOT to say and do.

They are responsible for all kinds of things: development, function, operation, growth, mood, focus, reproduction, energy, sexual function, metabolization and repair. Friends, this was the short list. So yea, they do a LOT.

So when we set out to make hormones happy and harmonic it will affect the sum total of us. I love that. I love that for us!

So whether you need hormones to behave for mental stability, fertility, menopause or sex I want you to grab these goodies on the quick snag grocery list.
This is NOT an exhaustive list, just a few items for your consideration and we’ll do a lot more.

Disclaimer: Please know your allergies and dietary needs as you browse this list. Consult your Physician/Nutritionist/Dietician

Why We Want

Bananas

Ba-nay nays produce Vitamin B6 which is a vitamin essentially responsible for serotonin; the feel good-at east chemical enzyme in the body. We know bananas for potassium but that’s not it. They help our bodies regulate to a homeostasis mood to actually “feel alright”! Bananas also have bromelain (popular in pineapples). This is not only to help fight inflammation but has proven to support healthy testosterone (for men and women). Enjoy a few bananas throughout the week (not a stalk at once). Add them in cereal, oatmeal/quinoa, shakes, pancakes and toppings.

Mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms to be specific, are helpful with hormones. When you need immunity building, stress reducing, and sleep improvement grab some reishi mushrooms. Meno Pausy ladies, these mushrooms also support estrogen and estrogen decline. Add them in your soups, stews, salads and casseroles.

Blueberries

I love to pop these babies on everything. Blueberries have been making a grand name for themselves in fighting inflammation, supporting progesterone levels and supporting proper sleep behavior (I say “proper” in my fake British accent)

Blueberries are really a great overall support and they have just enough juicy kick in their flavor to add to things like smoothies, salads, whole grain bowls or just let them shine alone and eat them the way they are!

Nuts & Seeds

I have personally drawn closer to nuts and seeds in the last 3 years because not only are they helpful but they are so accessible. These little items pack a powerful punch in hormone support. From progesterone production, follicle function (ovary function), amino acid impact to hair skin and nails. There are endless ideas for these: add them to your yogurt, breakfast bowl, smoothies, whole grain bowls, salads and anything else you dare to create. I’m talking about pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, flaxseeds, chia seeds, macadamia nuts, brazil nuts, cashews, almonds and walnuts. Grind them, blend them or sprinkle them.

Water

We SOOO underestimate the power of WATA! Repeat after me, “circulation and detoxification”. (listening for you to repeat it)

Yes yes yes, your body needs water for proper blood circulation and detoxification of the liver and kidneys. You can do detox drinks for fun or for seasonal things but you MUST do water at all times. Water regulates your body temp, supports your adrenal and endocrine glands; which are a big part of body function. Adding more water can also assist with a constant bloating feeling. I also suggest a splash of aloe vera juice in your water if you struggle with bloat, IBS/ and acid reflux. Drink your water friends!

Fermented Foods

So this is an “iffy” one with a lot of people because most don’t like bitter strong tastes. Well, our palettes are so use to sugary and flavorful things that we often dismiss the power and need of bitters. Fermented foods are great for digestive health, gut support and healthy bacteria. Digestion and intestinal issues can affect your mood and your overall daily function. If you’re unsure about FFs start with a small fermented yogurt drink. Sip on it a few times a day, allow your taste buds to get acquainted.

Cherry Tomatoes

These are very popular in India and for good reason: anti inflammatory, depression fighter, and anxiety reducer. They carry a healthy load of vitamin C, manganese, potassium and phosphorus. These vitamins and antioxidants support skin, fight against acid reflux and are known to help reduce the risk of heart disease. They come in various vibrant colors. Choose all of them and enjoy them in casseroles, soups and on salads

Avocado

Avocados have become a quick selling fruit in the marketplace as more people are enjoying its versatility and benefits. Avocados are many things; healthy fats, metabolic support, progesterone producer and and hormone stabilizer. Avocados are rich in mono-unsaturated healthy fat which helps with your hormone production and helps your hormones pass the inventory check. There are endless ways to enjoy them; by themselves, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, on salads, Buddha bowls, on toast, with eggs, in a smoothie, as a side dish…the possibilities are endless.

Happy Eating and Happy Hormoning!

Breast Exams: I've Been Getting Breast Thermography

In the world of medicine and health there are many choices. Sometimes its not a matter of right vs wrong but rather what is right for you. With research and professional counsel I opted for breast thermography. I have been getting them for the past 3 years and I appreciate the process, the labs and the counsel my practitioner provides.

Yes, there is a lot of controversy surrounding thermography; its efficacy and its non-FDA regulation. To that I have found that the data, treatment and information provided through settles any uneasiness I would’ve had otherwise.

I will also stop here and say that if you would like access to public medical journals regarding thermographs you can find them here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9731505/

I am a woman with dense breast; fibrocystic tissue which can result in very tender episodes.

The clinical definition is as follows:

Fibrocystic breast disease- Noncancerous changes that give a breast a lumpy or ropelike texture.

The condition is likely due to hormone changes during the menstrual cycle that affect breast tissue.

Symptoms include a change in breast texture, pain or tenderness, and lumpiness. These may be more bothersome before a period.

Most fibrocystic breast changes are normal. Medical evaluation is needed for new changes.

Another rendering is:

Fibrocystic breast changes are two things that can happen naturally in your breasts: fibrous tissue and benign (non-cancerous) cysts. It can happen when a woman gets thicker breast tissue that they can feel through the skin. Sometimes, cysts also form.

This is a very common condition. When you touch your breasts, you may notice that they feel lumpy or rope-like. They may also feel swollen or tender, especially in the outer, upper parts.

I have no issue with my breasts. My mom alerted me to what it was very early in my developmental years when she performed a breast test on me. We went to the Dr and that is when I learned what it was. Throughout the years I have learned how to ease the monthly episodes where pain or tenderness may arise and definitely during PMS time.

There are a few things that may trigger fibrocystic flareups. This is when the breasts are extremely tender, possibly a heavy “brick-like” feeling and sensitive-to-touch. Some variables includes hormonal changes, stress, alcohol and loads of caffeine.

With all of the above mentioned I felt more comfortable with a thermography.

Let’s discuss the breast thermography now.

A thermography machine uses an infrared camera to detect temperature differences within your breast tissue. During a thermogram screening, the machine never touches your body. On a thermogram image, “hot spots” appear red compared to surrounding tissue that appears yellow, green or blue.

(Note: the image below is not personal. Provided by Eagle Institute)

3 Changes That Make a Big Difference in How You Feel

It’s time out for constant tiredness, sluggishness, frustration and habits that don’t promote your living well and whole.

Consider these 3 changes and see how you begin to feel.

1. Wake up in the morning, breathe, say a quick prayer then stretch your body. Simply move your joints and your body parts around. Get blood flow/circulation in your vessel before you start moving around. I don’t care what or who has need of you. YOU need you first. It will affect how you move, bend, stretch, reach etc…

2. Get outside at some point during the day and get some air. I know we don’t have the best quality air in this country due to so many things but even still the outdoors will produce wonders. Step outside for a second. Open a window and peek your head out. Get out there with your kids or grands. It will shift your mood and help release some serotonin, a feel-good chemical enzyme stored in the brain. Receive a small dose of Vitamin C for a big boost. Psst…nature can also help the pineal gland release more melatonin. Good sleep is a bonus. BOOM!!!

3. Swap out all the sugars for some fruit and protein shakes. I’m not going to focus on quantity as much I want you to reconsider the habit of grabbing for cookies, cakes and sugary snacks. The switch out with help ease lethargy, clogged bowels, sleepiness during productivity hours and brain fog. Contribute a little more intention to your energy and focus. Working a sit down job or a job where they KEEP goodies around? I’ve been there. I suggest that you pack your own and also get with the person who provides these treats and encourage them to add some fruit, nuts and protein bars in there.

A little goes a long way. Start with these 3 and make a mental note (or an actual note) on how you begin to feel.

Be Well. Be Whole.

The No-No of Menopause

There aren’t many times in my teaching style that I’m giving women a Do Not list. I’ve learned that handing out a “Don’t” list is a recipe for panic, frustration and failure. I’ve evolved in my teaching a LOT in the past few years and that evolving includes teaching in a way that makes a woman feel that living well and whole is possible, accessible and desirable.

Then I chuckle because in this blog convo I’m having with you I’m going to point out some no-no’s. Yes, its the kind of no-no you teach a toddler who is trying to touch the electrical outlet. “Aht Aht”! you shout as you demonstrate the danger in them fulfilling curiosity.

So, deep breath it’s not that bad. I want you to know why there are a few things we just don’t wanna do in the Pause. With this information will come knowledge that will empower you with a few more tools as you journey through. Alrigthy let’s get started.

Don’t Stop Investing In Your Health

Frustration and repeated failed attempts can make you want to give up. You’ve been to the Dr countless times. You’re on new meds and you’re not feeling that vibe. You have tried supplements that people claimed worked for them…it didn’t for you. You work out and see no results. You have paid loads of money for services, products and fixes and nothing, Nothing, NOTHIIIIING! (cue Whitney Houston’s song) has worked.

Yet here I am saying “don’t give up”. I’m not trying to make you succumb to a hype of positivity mumbo jumbo. I’m saying to you that you are worth forging forward even when there seems to be no answer in sight. If you know the bible story about the woman who had the bleeding issue for 12 years you can imagine the pain, trauma and desperation she felt. In those days there was a scarlet letter on your head, women weren’t looked at in high esteem and they definitely weren’t suppose to be roaming the streets publicly being unwell. This woman, who many of us feel was experiencing fibroid issues or something reproductive, made no qualms about what she needed to do—she needed to get to the Healing Source by any means necessary.

I want you to sit on the bench for a minute if you must and then I want you to get back up and search for the support, help and answers that you deserve to have. It may be an answer-in-the-making, it could be finding the right connection, like how you found us, or it could be a myriad of things that only TIME will reveal.

As long as you are alive you deserve health. At your poorest state in your body you deserve health. At your weakest state you deserve health. Don’t stop investing in your health.

Don’t Stop Getting Your Well Woman Exams

Although your periods may be gone and you aren’t having the standard maintenance routines it is still a good idea to keep seeing your Gynecologist. For those who still have a uterus you will want to continue getting pap smears. I recommend annually because a lot can happen in 12 months but the standard now is every 3 years. Have that discussion with your Gyno and the two of you can make a decision in your visit frequency. Outside of periods there are other things that you want to consider that may warrant your attention and your Drs:

vaginal atrophy (the vaginal walls can become thin, sensitive and inflamed making sex uncomfortable and a cause for UTIs)

urinary incontinence (that little pee release that happens when you laugh, cough or sneeze. No shame if its happened to you. This can be due to estrogen deficiency. Have the talk with your Dr about it)

pelvic organ prolapse - sounds major, right? This means you have a weakened pelvic floor. This can happen after delivery/childbirth. The uterus, bladder and rectum are the 3 common areas where prolapse can be experienced)

Don’t Stop With Sex Responsibility

If you are single, practice sexual liberation and/or have multiple sex partners you are still advised to use condoms and practice safe sex. YES even during menopause. Peri girls you too! Remember when they told you in health class that nothing guarantees safety without a condom? It still stands even after 40 years old. Menopause doesn’t make your vagina exempt from STIs. A part of getting older is using wisdom and discipline. Protect your vagina and require the usage of a condom.

Now, these don’ts weren’t so bad were they?

We’ll be back with more!

Feel free to comment and share with other sisters.

Sex and Hormones

Are hormones affecting your sex drive? The answer is likely a resounding yes.

Regardless if you are enjoying a healthy sex drive, a high sex drive, or agonizing over a low sex drive, in most cases, your hormones are in control. For some patients, emotional and psychological factors play a role in sexual desire. For both men and women, sex drive that has diminished with age, menopause, andropause, or pregnancy is likely linked to a hormonal issue. Approximately 70 percent of low libido issues are related to a hormonal imbalance. A low libido due to hormonal imbalance does not mean that you are helpless. In fact, you can take an active role in resetting your hormones to reclaim your sex drive.

What the Research Says: Hormones & Sex Drive

The research on sexual dysfunction and low sex drive is vast and has grown significantly in the last ten years, as sexual functioning and related topics have become less taboo discussions between patients and their doctors.

A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that there is a greater prevalence of multiple sexual dysfunctions in women, namely issues with desire and arousal1. Men, on the other hand, generally struggle with a single issue, most frequently premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction.

Low sex drive or impaired sexual function is often linked to the sex hormones: estrogen and testosterone, but imbalances in progesterone, DHEA, thyroid hormones and even cortisol can affect your sexual desire.

Estrogen

Low levels of estrogen can impact sexual functioning and desire in women. Too little estrogen can contribute to vaginal dryness, making intercourse painful. Low estrogen can also impair sleep and cause mood swings, which are rarely a positive influence on sexual desire.

Testosterone

Testosterone is the hormone that has the greatest influence on human sexuality. Low testosterone production can affect sex drive and sexual performance in both women and men. Low levels of testosterone can negatively impact the desire to have sex, cause erectile dysfunction in men, and limit arousal and orgasm in women. Stamina may also be affected in both genders if testosterone levels are low.

Progesterone

A recent study found that increased levels of progesterone were correlated with a decreased sex drive in women2. This correlation was noted by tracking and observing hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle. When progesterone levels were at their peak, women reported a greater disinterest in sex.

DHEA

DHEA can have implications on sexual health, but since it is a precursor to testosterone, imbalances are often better treated with testosterone therapy. A small study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that women supplementing DHEA reported significant increases in frequency of thoughts about sex, interest in sexual activity and mental and physical satisfaction. Minor side effects were reported, including oily skin, acne, increased body hair and hair loss. Changes in dosage reduced side effects3.

Cortisol

High cortisol levels can affect sexual behavior. High levels of cortisol are common in individuals who are stressed. Too much stress can send the adrenal system into overdrive and cause an influx of cortisol. Excess cortisol leads to unwelcome effects such as fatigue, weight gain and impaired immunity—factors that can lead to a low sex drive or general disinterest in sex. However, a 2019 study found that sexual arousal can be impaired by an increase in cortisol as the result of anxiety about sexual performance.

Low Sex Drive in Women

Low sex drive in women is most often linked to issues with desire and arousal. Many of the hormonal fluctuations that occur throughout a woman’s life—puberty, pregnancy and menopause—can cause sexual desire to wane. Women are commonly diagnosed with a condition known as hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). HSDD is characterized by distress or anxiety related to the absence of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity in women. HSDD is the most common sexual health complaint among women, affecting 1 in 10 women.

HSDD can be a side effect of medications, certain lifestyle choices, life events: pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause or pain with intercourse. HSDD may also be a result of psychological or emotional issues, such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Relationship issues that affecting bonding with a partner may also be a factor.

Hormonal imbalances can play a significant role in female sex drive and sexual disorder. Estrogen dominance is a common condition that can impact sexual desire. If a woman has too much estrogen compared to other sex hormones, such as testosterone, she may experience low sex drive along with other negative effects.

In contrast, low estrogen can impact sexual function. Many women who lack sufficient levels of estrogen will experience vaginal dryness which can make intercourse painful. Too little estrogen is also associated with unstable moods and sleep patterns, which may affect sexual desire and activity.

Low levels of testosterone are another significant factor in low sex drive in women. Though women have less testosterone that men naturally, supplementing testosterone has been shown to boost female sex drive.

Thyroid disorders, which can affect metabolism, weight, energy and sleep as well as cause hair loss may also impair sex drive due to lack of energy or affected aspects of self-esteem.

Hormonal Balance Shown to Improve Sexual Desire in Women

Women who are suffering from a hormonal imbalance may notice that their impaired desire for sex is also accompanied by symptoms such as moodiness, weight gain, or insomnia. Comprehensive lab testing can help pinpoint the root cause of symptoms.

A 2020 study found that estrogen therapy was effective in increasing sexual desire in postmenopausal women. When testosterone was added to a low-dose estrogen therapy, sexual desire was further enhanced.

In conjunction with hormone therapy, optimal hormone balance is achieved with nutritional balance, routine exercise, and strategies to enhance mindfulness and reduce stress. Sexual desire and arousal can be significantly affected by emotional factors and stress levels in women. Physicians that specialize in hormonal health and hormone therapy can partner with you to develop an all-encompassing treatment plan that will get to the root cause of your symptoms, optimally restoring hormonal balance, overall health and wellbeing.

Being Fit As We Age

How do we do this “getting older” thing? How do we age well? How do we recover what we once had (more muscle, stronger immunity, stronger body)?

These questions and more are common and understandable.

Let me start by saying that only you can define what “fit” is for you as you age. You can make an assessment of your overall lifestyle, behaviors and choices and determine what needs to be better, stronger and what area(s) could stand some revision/restriction etc… This is important to do from a personal approach because general teaching, training and bandwagon approaches to being “healthier” are not always a sustainable option. Allow me to also remind you that the term “healthy” is relative; it means something different for each of you. That is why this is a personal journey and I will continue to remind us of that. In many of my podcast episodes I am encouraging you to learn your body and what it needs in each phase of its life. Your muscle mass will change, your bone density will change, your hormones (male and female) will change and what your life demands of you will change; therefore, take the time to learn your body and yes…..patience, tweaking systems and trial and error is a part of that process.

I encourage focusing on these areas for being fit and well as we age:

Immunity Health (fitness and muscle building is a large part of immunity health) We lose 1/2 lb of muscle a year.

Hormone Health (know your lab numbers, know how your body has been behaving and what signals its giving you, observe physical and reproductive challenges for men and women, peri/menopause seasons, cortisol and insulin health)

Bone Health (bone density changes making us more prone to injury, bone disease and frailty)

Metabolic Health: This is the big one. A lot of your activity, physical structure, gut, metabolism, energy and weight gain/loss stems from the status of your metabolic health.

Where to Start

1. Always be up to date on physicals, doctor visits and follow ups

2. Consider a wellness practitioner and nutritionist/dietician along with your medical team (each person has their own specialty that can maximize your knowledge and your efforts)

3. Get moving: you NEED to be moving your body engaging muscles, joints, bones, tendons, ligaments and elevating your heart rate for cardio endurance and health. Start where you are based on your physical capability (disabled/sedentary etc.)

4. Lift Heavy Things: you NEED resistance training aka weight lifting. I’m not saying to start with 50 lbs if you haven’t been working with 50 lb weights. Use wisdom here. With proper assistance weight lifting will build your immunity and help you fight sickness because your metabolism will improve. Your metabolism is linked to your immune system and your mitochondria. You do not have to lift weights everyday but it should be in your weekly rotation. Be Mindful of how you start and how long you workout (longer is not better as you age). Weight training will slow the rate of muscle loss and help you to rebuild loss muscle. Connect with a professional.

5. Incorporate short spurts of HIIT: a cardio approach to jogging/running as quickly as you safely can for 10/20/30 seconds followed by a brisk walk and repeat. With professional assistance this can also be done with various plyometrics. This is a boost for metabolic health and does not require a series of 30 minutes of HIIT. 5-7 mins of this cycle will do.

Extra Must Dos

Don’t forget about stretching, flexibility and balance.

Stretching can warm up the body and prepare muscles and limbs for movement and tension. Stretch before and after your workout time. Stretching will also message to your body that its ok that you’re about to challenge the body a little bit.

Flexibility can be achieved little by little. Consider gradually increasing range of motion. For example (per stretching) take long strides when walking for cardio as this will help with fluidity in hip flexors.

Balance movement is necessary for brain health and body. Try standing on one leg at a time for 15 seconds at a time with something sturdy for assistance if needed. Again, you know where you are in your health so begin based on that status. For those of you who can tackle more aggressive types of balancing exercises like using the bosu ball then do so. Consult with professionals for help.

Go for the Challenge. Wherever you are now I challenge you to push it a bit further. Your health is your life currency.

This is your time to be your best. To age well and to be prepared for it is the most liberating feeling and you deserve that in your mature years.

Be Well Be Whole.

Who Knew It Was Menopause?

How did you learn about “the change”? That’s what our mothers and baby boomer elders would call it. We know it to be menopause. That time in a woman’s life where she is bombarded with a lot of unwelcomed company.

There hasn’t been a lot of public information provided for menopausal women up to the last 5-10 years. Thankfully there is a boom of women who are discussing this new chapter and physicians and practitioners have joined in the conversation.

How do we define menopause? The official determination of menopause is when a woman has gone without a period for 12 consecutive months. The years leading up to menopause are known as perimenopause and periods can become irregular or more frequent (view the blog on peri).

Menopause can be a gray area for a Dr to detect and they may not always give you a definite like, “this is menopause”. Have very specific conversation with your Dr about how you’ve been feeling. Remember, you know your body so don’t dismiss things that make you feel a bit ‘off’. If that Dr. dismisses your concern find another one.

We know some of the common symptoms of menopause:

Hot flashes

Vaginal dryness

A dip in libido

Chills

Insomnia

Night sweats

Weight gain

Sluggish metabolism

Here are a few symptoms you may not have realized are menopausal-related:

Forgetfulness

Suicidal thoughts (read my blog about it)

Breast tenderness

Body odor

Hair thinning/loss

Dry skin

Restless leg syndrome

Itchy skin

Urinary incontinence

Other Issues that can stem from menopause can be:

High blood pressure

High cholesterol (LDL)

If you have been experiencing unusual high blood pressure, high cholesterol and a random emergence of diabetes consult your physician and moreover your holistic practitioner.

Menopause commonly begins for the woman around age 51 (as reported for the U.S.); however, menopause can begin for women ages 20-40 in special cases.

What You Wanna Know:

Have all of your hormones tested

Have an understanding of your estrogen and progesterone and more specifically estradiol

Consider the life modifications that are needed (more walking, become more active, revise your diet, adding herbs and proper supplements under health advisory)

Consider complementary therapies such as acupuncture, float therapy and mind-body practices

It’s Not the End of Your World:

While the onset of menopause can bring frustration and sadness hang in there. Once you understand this new body and what she needs you can embrace this “right of passage” in a way that empowers you. Don’t isolate yourself search for communities and groups that share their stories and provide mental and emotional support.

Need more? Feel free to take a look at our resources and programs.

As you journey remember the life goal and that is to…

Be Well. Be Whole.

Why Black Women Experience Menopause Differently

This episode honors the need for black women to have a space to hear about THEIR menopausal journey.

I include all 3 phases: peri/meno/post. I felt a need to share about the journey because I am a black woman but also as a practitioner in a dominated white space I heard a lot of teaching that just didn’t include some of our concerns.

This episode will define menopause. Talking Points include: •the symptoms •the exceptions •the reasons why we differ and •what approaches to take as you journey through these rites of passages.

Take a listen to the podcast episode version here

Watch the episode here