TCM Menopause Treatment: What Every Woman Should Know

When you're in your late 40s or early 50s and going through menopause, your body may feel unfamiliar. Hot flushes can interrupt meetings, night sweats can disturb your sleep, and mood swings can leave you feeling frustrated. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a different approach to managing these symptoms, using herbal remedies, acupuncture, and dietary changes to address the root causes.

What is menopause?

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life, marking the end of the reproductive years when menstrual periods eventually stop. For most women, it occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.

You've reached menopause when you haven't had a period for 12 consecutive months. This occurs as your ovaries gradually produce less oestrogen and progesterone, hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle.

Symptoms of menopause

Every woman experiences menopause differently. Some notice only mild changes, while others find the symptoms more challenging. 

However, there are some common signs you might notice:

• Hot flushes and night sweats

• Sleep disturbances or insomnia

• Mood changes, including irritability, or anxiety

• Irregular periods

• Vaginal dryness and reduced sex drive

• Difficulty concentrating or memory lapses

• Joint and muscle aches

• Weight gain

If you're struggling with symptoms that are negatively affecting your well-being, schedule an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine. Our physicians can work with you to find an approach that helps you feel comfortable and supported.

Causes of menopause syndrome

Menopause happens when your ovaries gradually produce less oestrogen and progesterone. Oestrogen regulates your menstrual cycle and helps maintain healthy bones and cholesterol levels, while progesterone supports pregnancy as well as helping to regulate blood pressure and mood.

From a TCM perspective, menopause is viewed as kidney deficiency and an imbalance of Yin and Yang. The "Kidney" here refers to an energy system that governs growth, reproduction, and ageing – not just the physical organ.

As you age, TCM sees this as a natural decline in essence (Jing) stored in the Kidney. This affects both Kidney Yin (associated with moisture, calmness, and body fluids) and Kidney Yang (associated with warmth, energy, and metabolic function).

When Yin and Yang become imbalanced, you may experience different symptoms:

• If Yin declines faster, you may experience hot flushes, insomnia, or dryness

• If Yang declines faster, you may feel fatigue, chilliness, or low mood

TCM treatments work by supporting Kidney function and restoring balance between Yin and Yang to ease your symptoms naturally. This approach addresses the root cause of your symptoms, helping your body find its natural equilibrium again.

TCM treatment options for menopause

When menopause symptoms disrupt your daily life, it's natural to wonder what support is available. TCM offers a personalised approach through herbal medicine and acupuncture – working to restore balance rather than simply masking symptoms.

Your TCM physician will assess your unique symptoms through tongue and pulse diagnosis to create a treatment plan tailored to you.

Herbal medicine for menopause

TCM herbal treatments focus on strengthening kidney function, clearing excess heat, and harmonising your body's energy. Your treatment usually addresses one of two patterns:

• Kidney Yin deficiency:

  • If you experience hot flushes, night sweats, insomnia, and restlessness, your physician may prescribe herbs that nourish Kidney Yin and clear internal heat.

• Kidney Yang deficiency:

  • If you feel cold hands and feet, fatigue, lower back pain with coldness, or low mood, your treatment will focus on warming and supporting Kidney Yang.

Acupuncture for menopause

Acupuncture has been shown to reduce the severity and frequency of hot flushes while improving sleep and mood. Fine needles are inserted at specific points to help regulate your body temperature, balance your hormones, and reduce stress.

Many women notice improvements within a few sessions. For Yang deficiency, your physician may also recommend moxibustion – a gentle warming therapy used alongside acupuncture.

If you're curious whether TCM could help with your menopause symptoms, schedule an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine. Our TCM physicians can evaluate your individual needs and create a treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns.

Tips to manage your menopause symptoms

Other than TCM treatment, simple lifestyle changes can support your body through this transition. Here are practical steps you can take:

• Eat a balanced diet:

  • Enjoy a variety of nutritious foods and limit deep-fried, overly salty, or cold foods.

  • In TCM, herbal soups and porridges can help nourish your body during this transition.

• Prioritise quality sleep:

  • Going to bed at a reasonable time helps preserve your body's Yin energy.

  • Try to stop eating or drinking 3 hours before bedtime, and consider soaking your feet in warm water to help you relax and fall asleep more easily.

• Stay physically active:

  • Regular exercise supports bone health, improves blood circulation, and helps reduce stress. Even mildactivities like walking or tai chi can help.

• Find healthy outlets for stress:

  • Explore hobbies that bring you joy, whether it's singing, playing an instrument, or learning something new.

  • Meditation and mindfulness practices can also help you manage mood changes.

• Connect with others:

  • Spending time with friends and community provides emotional support during this life transition. You don't have to go through menopause alone.

Every woman's menopause journey unfolds differently, and yours deserves attention and care. While this transition can bring discomfort, you have options for support.

FAQ

How long do menopause symptoms last?

Symptoms can last anywhere from a few months to several years. On average, women experience symptoms for about 4 to 5 years, though this varies from person to person.

Can you still get pregnant during menopause?

During perimenopause (the transition phase before menopause), pregnancy is still possible, as you may still ovulate occasionally. Once you've gone 12 months without a period, you can no longer get pregnant naturally.

Is TCM treatment for menopause safe?

When administered by a qualified TCM physician, treatment is generally safe with minimal side effects. TCM takes a tailored approach based on your individual symptoms and body constitution.

What does "Kidney deficiency" mean in TCM menopause treatment?

In TCM, the Kidney system governs reproduction and ageing. "Kidney deficiency" doesn't mean your physical kidneys are damaged – it refers to an imbalance in the energy system that supports your reproductive health. TCM treatment aims to strengthen this system.

Can TCM be combined with western medicine for menopause?

Many women use both approaches together. However, you should inform both your TCM physician and doctor about all treatments you're receiving to avoid any potential interactions between herbs and medications.

How is TCM different from hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

TCM focuses on rebalancing your body's natural energy and supporting organ function using herbs and acupuncture. Unlike HRT, which directly replaces hormones, TCM works with your body's natural healing processes and usually has fewer side effects.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and advice based on your unique situation, schedule an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine.