Holistic Menopause Treatments

Introduction: Why Menopause Requires a Holistic Approach

Menopause is a natural phase in every woman’s life, but the symptoms can vary greatly and disrupt daily activities. In New York City, at Patients Medical, we believe in addressing the root causes of menopausal symptoms rather than just managing them temporarily. Our integrative approach blends conventional medicine with holistic and functional treatments to support women through this life transition, helping them feel balanced, vibrant, and energized.

We treat the whole person—not just the symptoms.

What Is Menopause?

Menopause is the natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, characterized by a decrease in the production of estrogen and progesterone. These hormonal changes often result in a variety of symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, and mood changes.

Key Stages of Menopause:

  • Perimenopause: The years leading up to menopause, marked by irregular menstrual cycles and fluctuating hormone levels.
  • Menopause: Diagnosed when a woman has not had a period for 12 consecutive months.
  • Postmenopause: The years following menopause, where symptoms may persist but tend to diminish over time.

Common Symptoms of Menopause

While menopause is a universal experience, the severity and duration of symptoms vary among women. Common symptoms include:

If you experience these symptoms, schedule a diagnostic evaluation.

Root Causes: Why Do You Experience Menopausal Symptoms?

In functional medicine, we aim to uncover the root causes behind menopausal symptoms, which may include:

  • Hormonal Imbalance: A decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels is the primary cause of menopausal symptoms.
  • Stress: Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can exacerbate symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.
  • Nutrient Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients such as vitamin D, B vitamins, and magnesium can intensify symptoms.
  • Thyroid Imbalance: Low thyroid function can mimic or worsen menopausal symptoms, such as fatigue and weight gain.
  • Gut Health: A compromised gut can affect hormone metabolism and contribute to symptoms like bloating and weight gain.
  • Toxin Overload: Environmental toxins, including endocrine disruptors, can negatively affect hormonal balance.

Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we offer comprehensive testing to better understand the root causes of your symptoms. These include:

Hormone Panels: Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA

Thyroid Testing: TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3

Cortisol Levels: To assess adrenal health and stress response

Nutrient Deficiency Panels: Vitamin D, B12, magnesium

Gut Health Testing: Stool microbiome analysis, leaky gut tests

Heavy Metal Testing: To identify environmental toxin exposure

Genetic Testing: MTHFR and other genetic markers

Integrative Treatments for Menopause

Nutritional Therapy

We personalize nutrition plans to support hormonal balance and reduce menopause symptoms. Our approach may include:

  • Anti-inflammatory Diets: Mediterranean or plant-based diets to reduce inflammation.
  • Phytoestrogens: Foods rich in natural plant estrogens, such as flaxseeds, soy, and legumes.
  • Low Glycemic Nutrition: To help balance blood sugar and maintain stable energy levels.
  • Elimination Diets: To identify and remove foods that may exacerbate symptoms.

Hormone Balancing

For women with severe symptoms, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can help restore hormonal balance. We also optimize thyroid function to support overall well-being during menopause.

 

Stress Reduction & Mind-Body Therapy

Managing stress is key to easing menopause symptoms. Our integrative care includes:

  • Meditation and Mindfulness techniques to reduce anxiety and improve emotional well-being.
  • Acupuncture to reduce hot flashes, promote relaxation, and balance hormones.
  • Adaptogen Herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola to support adrenal health and reduce stress.

 

Herbal & Nutraceuticals

We recommend a variety of herbal supplements that are evidence-based and have been shown to support menopause symptoms, including:

  • Black Cohosh: Helps reduce hot flashes and improve mood.
  • Maca Root: A natural energy booster that supports libido and balance.
  • Magnesium: Aids in sleep, muscle relaxation, and hormone regulation.
  • Vitamin E: Supports skin health and reduces hot flashes.

Weight Management

Hormonal changes during menopause can contribute to weight gain, especially around the abdomen. We offer medically supervised weight management programs that incorporate:

  • Personalized meal plans to improve metabolism
  • Exercise regimens tailored to your needs
  • Metabolism-supporting supplements

Real Case Study: Jessica’s Journey to Balance

Jessica, age 49, came to us complaining of constant hot flashes, irritability, and fatigue. After testing, we found that her estrogen levels were significantly low, and she was dealing with high cortisol due to stress. We crafted a 3-month integrative treatment plan with:

  • Bioidentical hormone therapy
  • Anti-inflammatory diet
  • Acupuncture sessions
  • Stress management techniques
  • Nutrient IV therapy

After three months, Jessica’s hot flashes reduced by 70%, her mood stabilized, and she experienced a notable improvement in her sleep quality, all without relying on prescription medications.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, many women find relief from menopause symptoms through natural therapies, including dietary changes, stress reduction techniques, herbal supplements, and acupuncture.

Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) can be an effective option for women with severe symptoms, and when used under medical supervision, it is considered safe and well-tolerated by many.

Yes, even if you are on hormone therapy, integrating lifestyle changes, stress management, and targeted nutritional supplements can further help reduce symptoms and improve your overall well-being.

The timeline for seeing results varies by individual. Many women begin to experience symptom relief within a few weeks, but full benefits may take 2-3 months depending on the treatment plan.

A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet rich in phytoestrogens, healthy fats, and essential vitamins can help reduce hot flashes, mood swings, and other menopause symptoms. Proper nutrition supports hormone balance and overall health.

Yes, acupuncture has been shown to reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes, improve sleep, and alleviate stress, all of which are common concerns during menopause.

Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which can worsen hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Managing stress through techniques like meditation, acupuncture, and adaptogenic herbs can improve menopause symptoms.

While weight gain is common during menopause due to hormonal changes, it is not inevitable. A personalized weight management plan, including diet and exercise, can help prevent or reverse weight gain and support a healthy metabolism.

Yes, most women can continue their regular activities while undergoing holistic menopause treatments. Our integrative care is designed to complement your daily life, helping you feel better without requiring a major lifestyle change.

Menopause is typically diagnosed based on your age, symptoms, and menstrual history. Blood tests may be used to measure hormone levels, confirming menopause and guiding treatment decisions.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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