Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peri-Menopause?
Peri-Menopause means ‘around menopause’ and refers to the time during which your body makes a natural transition to menopause, marking the end of reproductive years. Peri-Menopause can also be called the menopausal transition and most often begins between the ages of 45 and 55. See HERE for more information.
What is the Menopause?
Menopause is a point in time 12 months after a woman’s last period. In the years leading up to that point, usually from the age of 45 onwards, women may experience changes to their monthly cycle, hot flushes, and numerous other symptoms associated with Menopause. See HERE for more information.
Can you treat the symptoms of Peri-Menopause?
Yes! There are many diet and lifestyle factors that can help as well as some specific treatments. Hormones are very complex which is why it’s best to seek professional guidance. Here at The Verve Clinic, we specialise in Menopause and Female Hormone Health. See HERE for more information.
I’m going through Menopause myself. Why do I feel as if I’m losing my mind?
Nearly all of the symptoms of Peri-Menopause like temperature regulation, sleep, mood, memory function and anxiety are actually neurological – they start in your brain. When oestrogen levels fall brain energy levels can fall dramatically making everyday tasks more difficult. See HERE for more information.
Do phytoestrogens ease the symptoms of menopause?
Phytoestrogens found in plants like soy and flax can have a weak oestrogenic effect. However, it is the action of beneficial bacteria in the Gut Microbiome on these foods which produces a stronger oestrogenic effect, which may be beneficial.
What is the gut microbiome?
This is the general term used to describe the collection of bacteria that live in the colon.
Why is the gut microbiome important during Peri-Menopause and Menopause?
We have evolved together with these bacteria throughout human history and the beneficial bacteria are vital to our health. As well as being an important feature of the gastrointestinal tract they influence our brain health, our immune health, our hormonal health, and our nutritional status. The gut microbiome is so important it can be considered an organ in its own right. During the time of hormonal transition (Peri-menopause) the brain, in particular, is under immense new pressures to perform against a backdrop of declining oestrogen levels. The role of beneficial bacteria in producing ‘brain supporting’ compounds cannot be underestimated.
Why do you recommend eating ’40 a week’ different plants instead of the usual ‘5 a day?
Variety! We often find that people are eating the same five fruit and vegetables each day, but it is the diverse range of fibre and polyphenols found in different fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, beans and lentils that feeds a greater range of beneficial bacteria, leading to a healthy gut microbiome. See HERE for more details.
What is the vaginal microbiome?
This is the general term used to describe the collection of bacteria normally found in the vagina. See HERE for more information.
Why is the vaginal microbiome important?
A healthy microbiome produces an acidic environment that inhibits pathogenic yeasts and bacteria. This can help to protect your reproductive organs. See HERE for more information