While most women may have one or two cycles that go astray in their lifetime, some women have prolonged periods without a menstrual cycle at all and this is known as amenorrhoea. There are a number of reasons this happens.
Primary amenorrhoea is when menstruation has not happened by the age of 16 whilst secondary amenorrhoea can be caused by a number of reasons, including hormonal imbalances, poor nutrition, prolonged physical or emotional stress, over exercise, low body weight, autoimmunity and polycystic ovaries amongst others.
Naturopaths will always assess any underlying causes of amenorrhoea including diet and lifestyle, medications, past history and weight changes. We also utilise a full standard pathology and integrative testing to investigate the underlying cause.
Herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years to support the hormonal health of women. Using liquid herbs in clinic we are able to individualise herbal medicine tinctures that can address several causative factors in one formula.
The type of herbs used in the treatment of amenorrhoea are aimed at rebalancing the hormones, promote ovulation and support healthy hormone metabolism. Other herbs called ‘emmenogogues’ are used, specifically, to provoke menstruation. They can vary in strength but some of the herbs that we like to use are:
- Angelica Sinensis – also known as Dong Quai, used in Chinese medicine to enrich and promote blood flow. This herb can also help with menstrual cramps;
- Shatavari – a beautiful herb that has great affinity to the female reproductive system and will help to balance out our hormones as well as supporting fertility and the nervous system;
- Chamomile – perhaps a surprising herb to find in this category but chamomile has a long history of being used to promote menstruation and to promote childbirth.
In clinic, we have many tools to regulate and support hormonal balance. If you are experiencing amenorrhoea come into clinic and let us help you regulate your cycle.