SE 7: EP 12 Taking Menopausal Women from Overwhelmed to Empowered
- SE 7: EP 12 Taking Menopausal Women from Overwhelmed to Empowered Clarissa Kristjansson 41:59
My guest this week is author, speaker, and renowned women’s health expert DR. LIZ LYSTER. As an OB/GYN and the founder of The Miracle of Menopause women’s network, Dr. Liz is a vocal advocate for women’s health and offers personalized guidance and comprehensive wellness strategies designed to help women navigate hormonal change and reclaim their well-being.
We delve into the often misunderstood phases of perimenopause and Menopause and uncover the nuances and complexities of these significant life stages, offering a fresh perspective on how women can navigate the physical and emotional challenges they bring.
Understanding the Differences
Dr. Liz begins by clarifying the distinctions between perimenopause and menopause, shedding light on the journey that starts with perimenopause—a transitional phase marked by hormonal fluctuations that can last several years before menopause officially begins. They debunk the common myth that as long as a woman is still menstruating, she doesn’t experience hormonal issues, emphasizing that symptoms can start long before periods cease.
The Physical and Emotional Rollercoaster
The conversation takes a deep dive into the array of symptoms women may experience, from Sleep disruptions and weight gain to mood changes and the emotional toll these changes can bring. Dr. Liz highlights the importance of acknowledging these challenges as valid and impactful, encouraging listeners to approach them with empathy and understanding.
A Holistic Approach to Symptom Management
Dr. Liz passionately advocates for a holistic approach to managing perimenopause and menopause symptoms. She emphasizes the necessity of addressing the root causes of hormonal imbalances rather than merely treating symptoms. Lifestyle factors such as Diet, Exercise, and Stress management emerge as crucial components of this approach, offering women a path to regain control over their health and well-being.
The Role of Growth Hormone and Restorative Practices
In a fascinating segment, the discussion explores the role of growth hormone in women’s health during these phases. Dr. Liz explains how growth hormone can support vitality and well-being, and they explore how restorative practices, such as mindful breaks in exercise and the benefits of walking or brisk walking, can significantly enhance overall health.
Challenges Within the Western Medical System
Clarissa and Dr. Liz candidly address the limitations of the Western medical system in adequately supporting women through perimenopause and menopause. They advocate for more individualized treatment approaches, recognizing that each woman’s experience is unique and requires tailored strategies for effective symptom management.
The Power of Community and Support
The episode underscores the importance of community and support networks in navigating this life stage. Dr. Liz shares inspiring stories of transformation and personal growth that can occur during menopause, highlighting this time as an opportunity for empowerment and self-discovery. This engaging discussion offers valuable insights and practical advice for women facing perimenopause and menopause, empowering them to embrace this transformative period with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re at the beginning of this journey or supporting someone who is, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and thriving through perimenopause and menopause.
Takeaways
* Perimenopause is the period leading up to menopause and can last up to 10 years or longer.
* Menopause is defined as one whole year without having a menstrual period.
* Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause can lead to sleep disruption, weight gain, mood changes, and other symptoms.
* There are common misconceptions about perimenopause and menopause, such as the belief that if a woman is still having her period, she doesn’t have hormonal issues.
* A holistic approach that addresses lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and stress management, is important in managing symptoms.
* Finding the root cause of hormonal imbalances is crucial for effective treatment. Growth hormone is important for overall health and can be stimulated through exercise and restorative breaks.
* Walking, especially fast walking, is beneficial for women during perimenopause and menopause.
* The Western medical system often lacks time and support for women going through perimenopause and menopause, leading to a band-aid approach and reliance on pharmaceuticals.
* Women need to advocate for themselves and seek out individualized treatment approaches.
* Community and support networks are essential for women during this stage of life.
* Menopause is an opportunity for transformation and personal growth.
Connect with Dr Liz Lyster https://drlizmd.com/
Follow Dr Liz https://www.instagram.com/drlizlyster/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlizmd/ https://www.facebook.com/DrLizLyster
Grab a copy of my new book Beyond Hormones: 7 Holistic Ways to Thrive Through Menopause available on Amazon https://bit.ly/BeyondHormones and Barnes and Noble https://bit.ly/3WCSNbn
Get full access to Heart of Menopause at clarissakristjansson.substack.com/subscribe
