The Natural Menopause Handbook

Table Of Contents

Foreword — vii

Acknowledgments ix

Introduction — 1


Chapter 1: Perimenopause — 7

The Reproductive Process and Perimenopause 8

The Onset of Perimenopause – 9

A New Stage of Life – 10

Mood Swings – 11

Erratic Menstrual Cycles – 16

Spotting and Flooding – 19

Improving Fertility – 22

Sexuality and Vaginal Changes – 27

Whole-Body Effects of Perimenopause – 30


Chapter 2: Menopause – 34

Cardiovascular Disease – 40

Osteoporosis – 45

Depression – 54

Dysmenorrhea and Reproductive System Pain – 60

Hot Flashes and Night Sweats – 67

Irregular Cycles – 74

Vaginal Thinning and Dryness – 78

Changing Appearance of Skin and Hair – 87


Chapter 3: Hormone Replacement Therapy – 93

HRT Studies: The Pros and Cons of the Drugs – 94

Hormone Therapy: A Historical Overview – 97

Hormones, Herbs, and Cancer Risk – 98

Natural Hormone Replacement or HRT: Your Decision – 102

Premature Menopause – 104

Coming Off of Hormones Safely – 106


Chapter 4: Postmenopause – 112

Arthritis – 113

Changing Nutritional Needs – 122

Nervous System Changes – 133

Immune Strength – 140

Vaginal Changes – 148


Appendix A: Guidelines for Preparing Herbs – 153

Appendix B: How to Make Your Own Menopause Formula – 156

Appendix C: Herbal Home Medicine Chest – 160

Appendix D: Herb Images – 162


Resources – 175

Bibliography – 181

Index – 189