Have you ever wondered if ________ is normal? I get asked this question a lot! Within the areas of women’s health, we spend a lot of time talking about disease, illness, and symptoms, but what about defining what “normal” is? What about your menstrual cycle, bowel movements, and nutrition? Keep in mind that we are all different. What is normal for one person, may not be normal for another. It also comes down to what you are willing to put up with. Some women have a very strong pain tolerance and will just ‘deal’ with it, while others will spend hours on google searching for a cure.
Disclaimer: Guys, sorry. This one is for the ladies. (Women’s Health)
1. Stress
Stress is a normal part of life, we all have it. The difference is the ways we manage the stress and how it affects us. Exercise, yoga, reading a book, spending time with loved ones, and meditation are just a few things people can do to relieve stress. Stress can often come with anxiety and/or depression which brings us into that “abnormal” category and can be treated with homeopathy.
2. Menstrual cycle
A normal cycle is 21 – 35 days and will last between 3-7 days. Cycles are measured from the first day of your menses to the first day of your menses the next month. This might change if you are on certain types of hormonal contraceptives.
3. PMS
Most women experience PMS the week before their period that is normal. The symptoms should dissipate by the first or second day of your menses and should not begin more than 1 week before your menses. You should be able to function normally during this time. Bloating, moodiness, cramps, cravings, and fatigue are just a few PMS symptoms that are normal. It becomes abnormal when it interferes with your daily life or is causing you significant distress. Staying home because you are in excruciating pain or are afraid you will bleed through your dress pants may be normal for you, but it doesn’t mean you have to suffer. I can offer treatments to ease the most problematic PMS symptoms and determine if there is something more serious going on like PCOS or endometriosis.
4. Bone density
Bone density normally increases during your younger years and can decrease especially after menopause. Estrogen is protective to our bones; therefore during menopause when estrogen levels decrease, our bone density can decrease as well. Having a bone density scan (DEXA) at the beginning of menopause can help determine whether you are maintaining, building, or losing bone during menopause. I can help you prevent bone loss with the proper supplementation.
5. Menopause
I hate to break it to you, but this is a normal part of life. Even those hot flashes are normal. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to suffer. Naturopathic medicine can keep you feeling like your younger self with herbs and nutrition.
6. Bowel Movements
Yes, that’s right I am talking about poop. 1-4 bowel movements per day is normal. When you look in the toilet it should be well-formed, in 1-3 pieces, and sink to the bottom. The color will depend on what you are eating but the green to brown range is normal
7. Metabolism
We have all heard that our metabolism slows down as we age. While this might be true, it doesn’t mean that you give up. Change is normal, but maintaining a healthy diet and doing regular exercise (including weight-bearing exercise) can make this transition less noticeable.
8. Love
Totally normal. I hope you do lots of it.
9. Healthy food
Making healthy food choices is a normal way to live your life. A healthy, nutritious diet can become the norm at your home if it’s not already. How can you start today? Increase the amount of veggies you eat every day! Still unsure of how to improve your diet? Make an appointment to come see me for a diet plan specifically for you.
10. Naturopathy
Naturopathic medicine should be a normal part of your healing journey and can help prevent and treat symptoms or diseases that are “abnormal”, or simply help improve your lifestyle with nutrition and nutrients.
Wondering if something you’re experiencing is “normal”? Send me a message or call for a free 15 minute women’s health consultation!