At ASKDRSKIP.COM, PLLC, we specialize in addressing various menstruation-related issues. Common concerns include irregular cycle start and end times, as well as variations in menstrual flow from very light to very heavy, and painful periods.

Menstrual issues encompass a range of symptoms experienced by women each month, from emotional disturbances like anxiety and depression to debilitating abdominal pain and headaches. Many women resort to high doses of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Midol, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or Excedrin for relief. However, holistic methods can effectively address these symptoms and provide quick relief, offering a balanced approach to menstrual wellness.

Prior to the start of menstruation women may experience a variety of symptoms including abdominal pain, bloating, heavy and painful periods, breast tenderness, depression, anxiety, headaches, sleep issues, mood swings and constipation. We are able to remedy many of these symptoms through simple changes.

The transition that happens when a woman enters the end of her childbearing years is called peri-menopause.  She may begin to have occasional hot flashes; her period may become very irregular and it may be much lighter than usual or alternate between very light and too heavy.  These signs indicate that fertility is waning, and menopause is on its way. This may be a good time to investigate your options for natural hormone therapy, while your body is beginning the transition, but is not yet in complete menopause.

Holistic menstruation / menopause treatments would begin with an assessment, so that we can learn what is going on within your body.  This evaluation might include the following laboratory tests:

Salivary Hormone Testing. This test will assess the client’s levels of progesterone, DHEA, estrogen, cortisol levels, and testosterone.  When results are available, Dr. Skip, O.M.D., will consult with you concerning your personal hormone balancing protocol tailored to your individualized results.

Abdominal work.  This non-invasive, external therapy serves to restore the blood flow to the organs in the abdomen and reduce inflammation and scar tissue. Additionally, Chinese Mugwort (in a process known as moxibustion) can be deployed to help balance the body and reduce pain/inflammation.  The warm herb is applied externally, directly over areas of pain. Oxygen may also be employed to reduce inflammation and increase recovery.

Lifestyle/Nutrition.  Are you consuming or exposing yourself to substances that are making your menstrual problems worse? Food sensitivities may be worsening your monthly bloat and weight gain and there are things you can do to feel better with simple dietary changes.  Dr. Skip may recommend food sensitivity testing and/or nutritional counseling and education.

Functional endocrinology evaluation. Other factors or issues to be evaluated may include: sugar imbalances, hypoglycemia, estrogen dominance, PCOS (poly-cystic ovarian syndrome) and infertility. Additionally, adrenal fatigue, diabetes, thyroid and other endocrine based disorders may need additional evaluation as dictated by symptoms being experienced and presented at time of your consultation to quickly facilitate the return of homeostasis in the body.