This class led by Dr. Heather Veronesi, a Naturopathic Physician with a deep-rooted passion for empowering women through natural healthcare. With over 18 years of experience and a doctorate from the University Of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine, Dr. V is uniquely equipped to guide participants through managing menopause with holistic strategies. This course will explore the benefits of nutritional, herbal, and environmental medicine, alongside physical therapies and detox protocols, all aimed at treating the whole person.

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Menopause is a natural phase of life, but it often brings a host of physical and emotional changes. Dr. Heather Veronesi recently led an in-depth class on menopause, shedding light on its symptoms, hormonal changes, and ways to manage this transition smoothly. Here's a comprehensive look at the key takeaways from her presentation.

What is Menopause?

Menopause is defined as the absence of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months. However, the transition to menopause, known as perimenopause, can span approximately five years. During this time, menstrual cycles may become irregular—sometimes lighter, sometimes heavier—depending on the individual's hormonal changes.

Common Symptoms of Menopause

As hormone levels fluctuate, women may experience:

• Irregular periods (longer gaps between cycles)
• Mood changes
• Insomnia
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Vaginal dryness
• Decreased sex drive
• Weight gain, particularly around the midsection
• Fatigue and joint pain
• Difficulty concentrating

These symptoms result from a complex interplay of hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, and can vary widely from person to person.

The Hormonal Changes Behind Menopause

Dr. Veronesi explained that menopause is primarily driven by decreasing levels of estrogen and progesterone, which are steroid hormones produced by the ovaries. Initially, progesterone drops while estrogen remains high, leading to heavy menstrual bleeding and symptoms like fibroids. As estrogen levels decline, menstrual cycles lengthen, and symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats become more prevalent.

During menopause, the pituitary gland in the brain works harder to stimulate the ovaries, but as ovarian function diminishes, this signaling becomes less effective, resulting in lower hormone levels overall.

Understanding Perimenopause and Estrogen Dominance

In perimenopause, women often experience an imbalance where progesterone is low, and estrogen is relatively high—this is known as estrogen dominance. Symptoms of estrogen dominance include:

• Worsened PMS
• Heavy, prolonged periods
• Mood swings and irritability
• Weight gain and bloating
• Headaches and breast tenderness

Estrogen dominance can also contribute to the development of fibroids and increase the risk of anemia due to heavy menstrual bleeding.

When Estrogen Levels Drop

Low estrogen levels lead to:

• Dry skin and vaginal dryness
• Weakened bones and increased risk of osteoporosis
• Reduced sex drive and painful intercourse
• Longer intervals between menstrual periods
• Higher cholesterol and increased cardiovascular risks

The decrease in estrogen also affects overall inflammation in the body, leading to more hot flashes, night sweats, and challenges in maintaining a stable mood.

Factors That Influence Menopause Symptoms

Dr. Veronesi emphasized that certain health conditions can make menopause more challenging:

• Thyroid Health: Low thyroid function can exacerbate menopause symptoms. Key tests include TSH, T3, Reverse T3, and TPO antibodies to rule out Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
• Adrenal Health: The adrenal glands take over hormone production during menopause. Chronic stress can lead to adrenal fatigue, worsening menopausal symptoms.
• Liver Health: The liver plays a critical role in hormone metabolism. A "bogged down" liver can hinder hormone clearance and amplify symptoms.

Managing Menopause Naturally

Dr. Veronesi shared a variety of natural strategies to ease menopause symptoms:

1. Diet and Supplements

• Cruciferous Vegetables: Foods like broccoli and cabbage contain DIM, which supports liver health and hormone balance.
• Magnesium and Calcium: These minerals help reduce inflammation and support bone health.
• Phytoestrogens: Natural compounds found in soy, flax, wild yam, and herbs like black cohosh can mimic estrogen and reduce symptoms.

2. Herbal Remedies

• Adaptogenic Herbs: Ginseng (specifically Siberian), Ashwagandha, and Rhodiola can support adrenal health.
• Castor Oil Packs and Liver Cleansing Shakes: These support liver detoxification and help manage hormone levels.

3. Medical Interventions (As a Last Resort)

• Bioidentical Hormones and Estrogen Suppositories: These can alleviate severe symptoms, particularly vaginal dryness and painful intercourse, but are recommended only when natural methods are insufficient.
• FemiWave Therapy: Uses sound waves to improve vaginal health, though it must be performed in a medical office and is not available through GoldCare.

Addressing Long-Term Health Risks

As menopause increases the risks for heart disease, osteoporosis, and cancers (breast, ovarian, cervical), Dr. Veronesi recommends:

• Regular Health Screenings: Keep track of heart and bone health.
• Dietary Adjustments: Increase anti-inflammatory foods and reduce simple carbohydrates.
• Physical Activity: Helps maintain bone density and cardiovascular health.

Final Thoughts

Menopause is a natural phase of life, and with the right strategies, it does not have to be overwhelming. Dr. Veronesi encourages women to assess their symptoms, consider natural treatments, and seek medical support if needed. By focusing on hormone balance, adrenal and liver health, and overall wellness, it is possible to transition through menopause with more comfort and confidence.