Menstrual health is a fundamental part of women’s healthcare and influences far more than the timing of a period. While it includes specific gynecological diagnoses such as heavy or painful periods, endometriosis, PMS, PMDD, PCOS, and fertility concerns, my approach focuses on how a woman’s menstrual cycle feels and functions throughout different stages of her life.

Menstrual patterns and symptoms often change with major life transitions including stress, childbirth, C-sections, IUD use, perimenopause, and the transition into menopause. These hormonal shifts can significantly affect mood, sleep, energy, metabolism, and overall wellbeing. During perimenopause in particular, fluctuating estrogen levels can impact the nervous system and may show up as disrupted sleep, worsening premenstrual symptoms, fatigue, joint pain, mood changes, or vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats — even when classic symptoms are absent.

I believe women should not have to accept feeling well for only a few days each month. Understanding menstrual cycles — past or present — provides critical insight into mental health changes, blood sugar regulation, weight shifts, and long-term health patterns. Ignoring or suppressing menstrual symptoms often means missing valuable information about what the body is communicating.

Care is collaborative and individualized. Women are provided with evidence-based options, risks, and standards of care so they can make informed decisions that align with their goals and values. As a licensed naturopathic doctor in Ontario, I can prescribe certain aspects of menopausal hormone therapy and work closely with nurse practitioners when additional therapies, such as estrogen or vaginal estrogen, are indicated. Treatment is never one-size-fits-all — it is designed around the individual woman and her life.