Perimenopause and Menopause

Perimenopause and menopause are natural and mandatory phases in a woman’s life, not diseases. These stages are marked by significant hormonal changes and various health concerns. 

  • Perimenopause: The transitional phase before menopause, lasting 4-8 years, characterized by irregular menstrual cycles and fluctuating hormone levels. Common symptoms include:
    • Irregular menstrual cycles
    • Hot flashes and night sweats
    • Mood changes (anxiety, irritability, depression)
    • Sleep problems
    • Vaginal dryness and sexual discomfort
    • Weight gain and slowed metabolism
  • Menopause: Defined as having no menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months, with symptoms often more intense due to persistent low estrogen levels, including:
    • Hot flashes and night sweats
    • Decreased libido
    • Thinning hair and dry skin
    • Loss of breast fullness

Dosha Predominant Characteristics in Menopause

Ayurveda describes three primary doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—each governing different physiological and psychological functions. An imbalance in these doshas during perimenopause and menopause can lead to various symptoms.

Vata Predominant Characteristics

  • Perimenopause: Anxiety, insomnia, irregular periods
  • Menopause: Vaginal dryness, poor libido, hair fall, dry skin, bone pain, migraines

Pitta Predominant Characteristics

  • Perimenopause: Hot flashes, irritability, palpitations
  • Menopause: Anger, mood swings, heat sensations, burning micturition

Kapha Predominant Characteristics

  • Perimenopause: Weight gain, edema
  • Menopause: Vaginal itchiness, increased libido, guilt, lethargy, depression

Diagnostic Tools

Ayurvedic Diagnostic Approach

  • Dosha Imbalance: Assessing the balance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha
  • Prakriti Analysis: Personalized health assessments based on individual body type

Modern Medical Tests

  • Hormone Levels: FSH, Estradiol, LH
  • Thyroid Function Tests
  • Bone Density Test: To assess osteoporosis risk

Ayurvedic Treatment Options

Ayurveda offers a variety of treatments to manage perimenopause and menopause symptoms, focusing on diet, lifestyle practices, and herbal remedies to balance the doshas.

Panchakarma Therapy

Panchakarma is a comprehensive detoxification treatment to cleanse the gut and rejuvenate the body. It helps remove toxins, balance doshas, and improve digestion and metabolism.

Dietary Changes

  • Warm, Nourishing Foods: Supports overall health and balances Vata
  • Cooling Foods: Helps manage Pitta-related symptoms like hot flashes

Herbal Remedies

  • Shatavari: Supports hormonal balance
  • Ashwagandha: Reduces stress and anxiety
  • Triphala: Aids in digestion and detoxification
  • Additional Herbs: Madhuyashti, Brahmi, Mukta, Punarnava

Lifestyle Practices

  • Yoga and Meditation: Manage stress and improve well-being
  • Daily Routines (Dinacharya): Regular sleep patterns and self-care rituals

Conclusion

Menopause is a significant transition in a woman's life, bringing both challenges and opportunities for growth and self-care. Ayurveda, with its emphasis on balancing the body's energies and promoting holistic well-being, offers a unique and effective approach to managing this phase of life. By integrating ancient wisdom with modern scientific insights, we support women in navigating menopause with confidence, health, and harmony. Kiaan Ayurveda emphasizes empowering women with knowledge about their bodies and providing ongoing support. Regular check-ups help detect health issues early, and personalized care enhances women's overall quality of life during perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. With a focus on natural and holistic approaches, Kiaan Ayurveda strives to help women navigate this transformative phase with confidence and well-being.

Kiaan Ayurveda emphasizes empowering women with knowledge about their bodies and providing ongoing support. Regular check-ups help detect health issues early, and personalized care enhances women's overall quality of life during perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. With a focus on natural and holistic approaches, Kiaan Ayurveda strives to help women navigate this transformative phase with confidence and well-being.

 

By integrating these Ayurvedic principles into their lives, women can experience improved well-being, reduced symptoms, and better adaptability during the perimenopause and menopause stages. Consulting with our experienced Ayurvedic practitioner, Dr. Deepti Gupta,  will ensure a tailored approach that suits individual needs and promotes overall health and vitality.