Experience Licensed Naturopathic Physician for 7 years
Currently: Assistant Professor of Naturopathic Medicine, Department of CLinical Sciences, National University of Health Sciences, Lombard, IL
Organizations American Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Secretary and member of Illinois Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Education/Credentials Bastyr University, doctor of naturopathic medicine
University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine, residency in family and integrated medicine
Question I am a 38 African American woman, who is about 40 pounds over weight. I live in Korea and I have been here almost 2 years. Recently face has begun to break out I look like a teen with a breakout. Also my hair seems to be shedding a lot and my period comes when it feels like it. It will come on very light the first week then moderate flow the next week. Then it stops and comes back like a week later! I have been to the OBGYN no infections. They want me to take hormones. I don't take the pill and I really don't want to take hormones. Anything in the natural world that can help with the bleeding and acne?
Can stress and being over weight be the cause of all this?
Thanks
Answer Hello Tiff,
Thanks for your question. If you were in the US I would highly recommend you see a naturopathic doctor, because what you describe needs further investigation before treating, to find out the cause of what's going on. Certainly, stress and weight gain can be associated with menstrual changes and other hormonal symptoms, but may be either a cause or effect; that's why finding a supplement or herb to treat your symptoms will likely not result in a lasting effect. But there is some investigation you can do on your own, and perhaps find an OBGYN there who is open to working with that. I would start with research on adrenal fatigue, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and natural hormone balance. Look for websites as well as books by Drs. John Lee, Christiane Northrup, Tori Hudson, and James Wilson, among others. In the meantime, you can start making some positive changes on your own. Sleeping, exercising, and managing stress will be helpful for just about anyone. Increasing water intake, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in the diet, while decreasing sugar, caffeine, alcohol, processed foods, and junk foods will likely be beneficial also. Once you have done some research and possibly further testing with your physician, you may be able to start natural remedies as well that specific to your condition. Good luck
Dr Conner
