The “Change of Life” is a good term for the transition from having menstrual cycles to the last menstrual period, this time is technically called the peri-menopause, or time before the menopause.  

The definition of menopause is the last menstrual period in a woman’s life and it cannot be confirmed till a year after it has happened.

This natural process in  a woman’s life happens when the ovaries stop working.  Although it is not an illness, women often need treatment for the symptoms suffered during this time.

This peri-menopausal time can last a number of years in some women. The symptoms that accompany this transition can be frustrating andannoying to women and often, also to those around her. 

 By definition the pre-menopausal period begins at the age of 40 (women who stop having periods before this age are diagnosed as having premature menopause).

    Peri-menopausal symptoms are numerous, the list can be endless.  The following list summarizes the main symptoms that affect a woman’s every day life:

Symptoms

  • Hot flushes
  • Irregularity in the menstrual cycle
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Discomfort with intercourse (dyspareunia)
  • Irritability
  • Bloating
  • Weight gain
  • Carbohydrate craving
  • Depression
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue and insomnia

    All these happen as a result of the fluctuation of the hormones which stimulate ovulation, as a result the menstrual cycle becomes irregular and pre-menstrual symptoms (PMS) are also more common during this time.  These symptoms include, breast tenderness, irritability, tearfulness, low mood, weight gain, bloating, carbohydrate craving, headaches, fatigue and insomnia.  Other problems that result from this change are the eventual development of osteoporosis (thinning of bone density) and various types of heart disease.


Natural oestrogen and progesterone supplements which are bio identical to a woman’s hormones are used in NaProTechnology® to help these symptoms.  These supplements are given in co-operation with the woman’s cycle.  She will chart her cycles with the Creighton Model System so that the replacement hormone is taken at the appropriate time. Charting can also be very helpful during the period of irregular cycles as the woman will have a clearer idea of when she has ovulated and when to expect her next period.  Treatment for the PMS symptoms is also available with NaProTechnology®. Our aim is to help manage the symptoms during this time of natural change and to help the woman manage this new chapter of her life.