Reproductive Health
The overall well-being and care of individuals in relation to their sexual and reproductive processes and functions.
Although the reproductive system is not essential for maintaining life, it is needed to propagate it. The only system that differs greatly between the male and female bodies, the reproductive system is designed to fulfill the purpose of producing offspring – the ultimate biological goal of the human body and all living things. The reproductive organs of an adult male manufacture and supply sperm (spermatozoa), together with the secretions of various glands that make up the semen, or ejaculate. The testes, which are the site of sperm production and storage, produce the male sex hormone testosterone. The female reproductive organs release a stored egg (or ovum) at monthly intervals, with two possible outcome each time, to allow shedding of the uterine lining at menstruation, or to enable fertilization, implantation, and nurture of a developing embryo.
Between 80% and 90% of women report experiencing symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). Symptoms and severity can vary greatly among women and at different times in a woman’s life. Sign and symptoms can look like; cravings of carbs, sweets, and chocolate, breast swelling and tenderness, increase appetite and hunger, water retention and bloating, mood swings.
We will recommend lots of organic vegetables and fruits, high-quality protein, remove sugar, gluten, dairy, no alcohol, add ground flax, or flaxseed oil, drink plenty of water, food high in calcium, magnesium, zinc, chromium and iron. One can add supplements like B-complex, B6 and night, evening primrose oil, fish oil. We can request testing if needed like IgG food sensitivity, salivary hormone and cortisol panel, full thyroid panel, DUTCH test (hormonal imbalance).
The root of hormonal disequilibrium is sleep and stress. Adrenal glands are at the base of all hormone issues and can produce excess sex hormones. We would want to look at any history of sexual abuse, time and length of menstruation (overall menstrual history). How many hours spent in front of the computer, or television? Are there any electronics on at bedtime (need dark room)? Under sleeping, low blood pressure, skipping meals? Is there too much or too little of exercise? Is one’s body working too hard for lack of nutrients needed? Does one feels disconnected spiritually and emotionally? We will recommend good herbs to support stress and adrenals like Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, maca, Holy Basil (teas as well), Ginseng, licorice. Essential oils can be a good support.