Menopause is a natural stage in a woman's life that marks the end of her reproductive years. The definition of menopause is a point of time 12 months after a woman’s last menstrual period, and occurs on average at age 51. Alongside common symptoms such as hot flashes that occur during menopause, there are also significant effects on bone health. The decline in hormones, particularly estrogen, can lead to a decrease in bone density and an increased risk of developing osteoporo

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a common condition that affects between 27-84% of postmenopausal women, yet it is often not talked about enough. This syndrome is characterized by a range of symptoms, including vaginal dryness, itching, burning, irritation, pain with sexual activity, burning on urination, increased frequency of urination, and increased risk of urinary tract infections. The decline in estrogen that comes with menopause is the main cause of GSM. Est

If you are actively trying to conceive, determining your fertile window is an essential piece of knowledge. The fertile window refers to the time period when successful conception is most likely to occur. In this article, we will explore the three methods of determining your fertile window - the calendar method, ovulation predictor kits (OPKs), and basal body temperature tracking (BBTs). We will also discuss the reasoning behind the fertile window and understand the lifespan

When preparing for a pregnancy, hormone testing plays a vital role in a comprehensive fertility assessment for the female partner. In my naturopathic practice, I will often recommend hormone testing for those trying to conceive so we can understand baseline numbers, and provide early intervention, guidance and referrals when needed. In this article, we will discuss various hormones relevant to fertility and the significance of testing them. Let's dive in! Hormones in the Fer

What is Endometriosis? Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition that affects approximately one in ten women of reproductive age. This disorder occurs when endometrial tissue that typically grows inside the uterus appears in other parts of the body. This misplaced tissue most commonly grows on the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, intestines, and the ligaments and muscles of the pelvis. Since this tissue acts like it would inside the uterus, it thickens, breaks down, and b

Perimenopause is a transitional phase in a woman's life when hormone levels fluctuate as ovarian function declines, leading to various physical and emotional changes. One of the most common concerns I see in naturopathic practice during this phase of life is heavy menstrual bleeding. In this article, I will review the use of cyclical progesterone therapy as an effective option for managing heavy menstrual periods in perimenopause. Understanding Heavy Menstrual Periods in Peri

Written by Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen | Naturopath Victoria BC Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects many women of reproductive age. It is characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, high levels of androgens (male hormones), and multiple cysts on the ovaries. PCOS can cause infertility, weight gain, and other health concerns such as insulin resistance and acne. In my naturopathic practice inositol is one of my go-to therapies for treating PCOS. I

Learn all about the contraindications to hormone replacement therapy, based on the North American Menopause Society's guidelines.

Learn all about the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy based on the North American Menopause Society's guidelines.

Learn all about the top 3 nutrients to get tested for optimal fertility outcomes. Naturopath Victoria BC.