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Naturopathy/amennorhea
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QUESTION: I would like to do something naturally for not getting my mentrual cycle. Previously had been on birth control for about 14 yrs, then used Nuvaring for 3-4. Periods began getting very light about 1 day then barely that for 9 mon or so before stopping the Nuvaring. Last use was Feb 09. Haven't had period since. Would like to try a product called Endau from Neways which is an progesterone cream. But not sure if I should mess with the hormones that way. I plan to see a supposedly natural, holistic doctor but they do work at a regular hospital so I'm not sure where she will go with this issue.
Any suggestions off hand
ANSWER: Hi Sheri,
Can you first tell me how old you are?
In Health,
Dr. Jacques
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: 38 yrs old
Thank you - If you are 38, then you are not likely to be entering menopause.
You would want to make sure that your have seen your doctor and ruled out conditions that would cause loss of menstruation - thyroid disease, prolactinoma, poly cystic ovarian syndrome, etc. They will also probably suggest that you do what is called a progesterone withdrawal test - where they give you a high dose of progesterone for a week or so then have you stop and see if you get a period. It's not fun, but it does tell you if you body can have a period. So you should be evaluated if you have not already done this.
If you have already had these things evaluated, and you want to try something to regulate/restart your cycle naturally, Vitex Agnus Castus is the herb of choice. You want to look for a dose of 175 mg. or more of standardized vitex extract, (standardized to contain 0.6% agusides). Take it once daily. It can take 2-3 months to see a result, so you have to be faithful.
In Health,
Dr. Jacques
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Jacqueline Jacques, ND
Expertise
I can answer any question related to conditions treated by naturopathic medicine and how they might be approached. These would include (but are not limited to) allergies, arthritis, depression/anxiety, autoimmune diseases, irritable bowel, PMS, menopause, hormone dysfunction, chemical sensitivity, headache, and chronic pain. I am also happy to discuss naturopathic therpaies including herbal/botanical medicine, medical nutrition, diet therapy, detoxification, manipulation, hydrotherapy, and natural hormone replacement. I would also welcome questions on naturopathic philosophy, licensure, scope of practice and education
Experience
I am a licensed Naturopathic Doctor (ND) with ten years of experience. The focus of my work has been in women's health, obesity and pain, but I have treated all conditions. I currently see private patients, consult in the natural products industry, formulate product for a medical nutrition company, write for several publications, and speak across North America. I additionaly serve on the medical advisory board of several companies and non-profit organizations.
Organizations
California Naturopathic Doctors Association (member and past board member)
American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (member)
National Nutritional Foods Association (member)
Obesity Actional Coalition (Medical Advisory Board)
Samueli Canter for Integrative Medicine at University of California, Irvine (Board Member)
Publications
Nutrition and the MD, Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients, Bariatric Times, Today's Dietitian, Integrative Health Retailer
Education/Credentials
Lewis and Clark College
National College of Naturopathic Medicine
Awards and Honors
Health Professional of the Year (2004) - Bariatric Support Centers International
Past/Present clients
NA
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