Early or Pre-Menopause
Each stage in the change of life brings with it symptoms which may range from mild to extreme. However, in the early stages of menopause or the time called pre-menopause, the following may give you a guide to some of the more common symptoms. Each woman will experience a different length for each stage of menopause and for each symptom, there is are herbs that can assist you to better deal with them.
There are enormous changes taking place in the hormonal balance of the female reproductive cycle during the change of life. A woman is passing from being sexually capable of producing children to being no longer able to have children. Let's start with some of the physical symptoms of early menopause as these are usually the first ones we notice.
Caution with Taking Herbs
If you are currently taking any medication consult the prescribing practitioner/pharmacist before taking any of the recommended herbs or any herbal product.
Early Menopause Irregular Periods
During early menopause there will be a change in the pattern of menstruation. Women often notice in the months leading up to menopause that their periods will change, possibly in length and in intensity. Sometimes your period could last for a lot longer than usual but also one's period can reduce in length and become shorter.
When your period becomes irregular you will not know when it going to happen. Mostly, periods occur every 28 days but often it can be anywhere from 23 to 35 and this will vary also if they become irregular. In early menopause, you may find that you have your period one month and then a couple of weeks later it happens again. Here are some signs for irregular periods:
Longer than usual gaps between periods.Having 2 periods in one month and then no period for 2 months.Gaps of no periods and then a heavy period.Herb for Irregular Periods
Chaste berry or Vitex Agnus Castus is an extreme is an extremely effective but slow acting herb which often needs to be taken for 6-8 weeks at a time. If your periods have started to become irregular, take a dropper full (approx. 35 drops) of Chaste berry in a glass of water 2 or 3 times a day. Many women use herb throughout their whole change with excellent results.
Early Menopause Flooding
During early menopause, you may experience heavy flooding during your period. This means an increase in the bleeding during your period.
Herbs to help with Flooding
To ease this, take 5-10 drops of the fresh plant tincture of Ladies Mantle three times a day.
1-2 weeks before menstruating. Dong Quai and Red Clover can increase flooding so cut back on these herbs if you are flooding. Apple cider vinegar also helps to prevent too much bleeding, take a teaspoon in warm water with honey to taste.
Early Menopause Menstrual Cramps
For menstrual cramps, the hormone and mineral rich Sage tea is an excellent remedy. To ease the pain of Menstrual cramps try Valerian root tincture. However - treat this carefully as it can either relax you or make you hyperactive. Test by taking a dropperful (35 drops) in a glass of water.
Wait 24 hours to see the result. If it does relax you, it is an excellent ally for the stress of Menopause.
Early Menopause Fibroids
Sometimes, fibroids can develop in the uterus. Uterine fibroids can occur at any time during the change and if present can often enlarge during the menopause. The word ' fibroid ' means a growth of fibrous tissue in the uterus. Larger fibroids may exert pressure on the bladder and bowels, causing frequent urination. They are common and usually are harmless.
Herbs & Tips for Reducing Fibroids
If you have fibroids, then take Chase Tree Berry throughout the change as it may help in decreasing fibroids. An ancient method of handling internal scars and also fibroids is to place a warm ginger tea pack or hot castor oil pack over the external area. This may bring relief and reduce the fibroid.
