Menopause occurs with the permanent cessation of menstrual activity, between the ages of 35 and 58, most occurring between 45-55 (average age 48). The menses may stop abruptly, there may be a decreased flow each month until eventually stopping, or there may be a steadily increased length of time between periods before they cease. The periods may also become irregular.
The various signs and symptoms associated with the decline and eventual cessation of the ovarian function are referred to as the menopausal or perimenopausal syndrome. These include the menstrual changes already mentioned, hot flushes, night sweats, insomnia, palpitations, anxiety, irritability, dizziness, restlessness, tinnitus, headaches, fatigue, emotional volatility, forgetfulness, lumber pain, fever, chills, numbness, tingling, muscular aches, urinary frequency or fever, chills, numbness, tingling, muscular aches, urinary frequency or incontinence. The syndrome may last from a few months to several years and may vary in severity from being barely noticeable to being severe.
According to TCM, when a woman reaches the age of 49 (seven times seven), the Kidney Jing Essence has declined (lack of oestrogen) to the point where it is no longer able to fill the Chon and Ren channels with Qi and blood. Together with the decreasing ability of the Spleen and Stomach to produce blood, this results in the Uterus being inadequately supplied with Qi and blood and menstruation cease. Thus the main cause of the changes that women undergoes at time is deficiency of the Kidney.
This disease manifests as imbalance of Yin and Yang of the Heart, Liver, and Kidney, especially that of the Kidney. Thus the principle of treatment is to nourish the Kidney primarily, and calm the Heart and Liver secondarily. In cases of Yang deficiency the Yang is tonified, and the Spleen is invigorated as well.
In Chinese Medicine, there are seven patterns in menopause. These include:
1. Kidney-Yin deficiency
2. Kidney-Yang deficiency
3. Kidney- Yin and Kidney-Yang deficiency
4. Kidney and Liver-Yin deficiency with Liver-Yang rising
5. Kidneys and Heart not harmonized
6. Accumulation of Phlegm and stagnation of Qi
7. Stasis of Blood
A Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner can diagnose your condition and recommend a treatment plan specific for you and your Menopausal Syndrome. Treatment plans may include Chinese Herbal Medicine and/or acupuncture.