Hormone Health
Our hormones are chemical messengers that are responsible for so many functions in our body. There can be many reasons why we might experience hormonal imbalances which include; genetics, toxin exposures, stress levels, lifestyle, diet and nutrient levels.
If you're experiencing a hormonal imbalance, there are many symptoms you might experience depending on what particular hormonal imbalance you’re experiencing.
At womankind naturopathy, we are experienced at investigating hormonal imbalances, interpreting pathology results as well as salivary hormone testing and a thorough case-taking history.
We then design a treatment plan based on your blood/ salivary hormone results and your individual symptoms.
Common hormone imbalances we treat:
Hormonal Acne:
Hormonal acne commonly appears along the jawline, chest and on the back and is caused by fluctuations in hormones such as testosterone, insulin and insulin growth factor.
These hormones increase androgens, which play a huge role in regulating sebum production. Naturopathy and nutrition can help, by using evidence-based treatment strategies to balance hormones, and reduce insulin and insulin growth factor, therefore treating the cause of hormonal acne.
PMS (Premenstrual syndrome)
Can be common (but not normal) and some of the symptoms can range from; mood swings, anxiety, irritability, depression, migraines, fatigue, food cravings, bloating, fluid retention and breast tenderness.
By balancing hormones and using evidence-based natural medicine strategies, these symptoms can be resolved so that you can lead a happier, symptom-free life.
PMDD (Premenstrual dysphoric disorder)
PMDD is an extreme form of PMS and can alter a person's life by causing extreme mood swings, anxiety, irritability, depression, migraines, food cravings, bloating, fluid retention and breast tenderness. I have helped many women overcome PMDD, which leads to them living happier, symptom-free life.
PCOS (Polycystic ovarian syndrome)
So you have just been diagnosed with PCOS and would like to know how lifestyle changes, dietary changes and supplements can hugely improve your symptoms.
It's important to know which type of PCOS you have, which involves further testing and really governs the treatment protocol.
The 4 functional types of PCOS are Post-pill PCOS, Inflammatory PCOS, Adrenal PCOS and Insulin-resistant PCOS.
Peri-menopause/Menopause
This can be an uncomfortable, emotional and frustrating time for women!
Some women experience very heavy menses, mood swings, hot flashes, dry skin, vaginal dryness, mood & cognition problems, irregular cycles, hair loss, insomnia and fatigue.
As your ovaries start to decline their production of hormones (oestrogen and progesterone), it's important women are emotionally supported through this transition. Naturopathy can help manage these symptoms and in most situations help you regain your health again.
Endometriosis
Although Endometriosis doesn’t fall under a hormone imbalance, there can still be hormonal drivers, as the endometrial tissue responds to oestrogen.
Endometriosis occurs when endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus and depending on where the endometrial tissue is located, it will influence your symptoms. Heavy bleeding is probably the most common symptom, which can greatly impact a person's life. This can govern time off work and social events leading to stress and anxiety. A lot of clients I see, also have some form of IBS (irritable bowel disease) alongside heavy bleeding. Naturopathic treatment looks at improving quality of life by correcting nutrient deficiencies (such as iron), improving gut symptoms (IBS), improving oestrogen clearance, and reducing menstrual bleeding and cramping.