Dr. Xiaolan Zhao

Remembering that we are each unique and have our own special needs, we must make our own decisions. It is important to evaluate our personal risk and benefit factors. Do we have a family history of breast cancer, uterine cancer, uterine fibroids, breast cysts, Alzheimer's, heart attacks, strokes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure? Taking Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) could increase your risk for these conditions. Not taking HRT could increase your risk for osteoporosis and extreme menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, increased weight and low libido.

HRT offers faster relief from these symptoms than Chinese medicine does. However, HRT does not address the root cause of the symptoms, nor does it strengthen the Kidneys. Theoretically, ancient Chinese medicine practitioners would not condone its use since it makes our bodies think we are still ovulating. It activates the endometrium, resulting in withdrawal bleeding on a regular cycle. The cessation of our menstrual cycle is our bodies' natural means of preventing a further loss of Essence. With prolonged bleeding, our Kidneys, Spleen and Liver are taxed and ultimately depleted, contrary to the natural events that should be occurring in the body ...

I have worked with many women who have used both Chinese treatments and recommendations and HRT. In treating patients, I acknowledge how debilitating some symptoms can be and, in these instances, understand the patients' desire to use HRT. However, I would advise that taking it be a short-term solution only. After a few months of TCM, many patients wean themselves off HRT by gradually reducing their dosage over a period of time. Stopping HRT abruptly may result in rebound bleeding, hot flashes or other health problems due to the body's dependence on this unnatural form of supplementation ...

Whatever form of treatment you choose, keep in mind that you can always switch if problems arise. As well, please remember that the transition into Second Spring is a natural progression that doesn't require a full-scale offensive against our bodies. If we take care of the different levels of our being, we can increase the possibility of an optimal experience of menopause with minimal unnatural interference or complications.

To read this passage in its entirety and to see more recommendations for the menopausal years, read "Second Spring", Part Seven of Reflections of the Moon on Water.

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