Reflexology for Peri-Menopause and Menopause

Reflexology Menopause Milngavie, Glasgow Reflexology

Menopause is a natural change in the female reproductive system that normally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.
As you age, hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone begin to fluctuate due to your declining egg reserve, and over time they will dramatically fall – this phase is called the perimenopause. Symptoms usually start a few months or years before periods stop and can persist for some time afterwards with a significant impact on daily life for some women.

80% of women will experience symptoms around the menopause however the duration and severity of these symptoms varies as their hormone levels transition to the new normal of low levels of oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone.

The classic symptoms that most people associate with menopause are night sweats and hot flushes, but not everyone gets these, and symptoms of menopause are much more varied than we hear about. In fact there are over 30 recognised symptoms of menopause.

Why does menopause have so many symptoms?

Our hormones circulate around our body and exert an effect on any cell they come into contact with that has the right receptor to recognise it. Oestrogen receptors are present in the majority of tissues around the body and has many functions including a direct impact on the stress hormone cortisol. As oestrogen levels drop, cortisol levels can rise which means that adrenalin (our primary stress hormone) can easily be triggered in the body leaving us feeing anxious and stressed. A decline in oestrogen also affects other parts of our body such as the immune system, fat cells, skin, gut and central nervous system.

The Importance of Relaxation during the Menopause

A study has shown that chronically elevated cortisol increases the likelihood of severe menopausal symptoms so prioritising relaxation is key. In the research regular reflexology treatments have been shown to be beneficial in reducing symptoms however making time every day for some form of relaxation such as meditation, a mindful walk or yoga can also help reduse stress.

Reflexology can help with the physical and emotional menopausal symptoms by regulating the hormones and glandular functions of the body. Reflexology helps to restore balance to the endocrine system, by working on the adrenal gland, hypothalamus and pituitary gland this in turn can alleviate hot flushes and anxiety.

Calming the central nervous system, sleep disturbances can also be alleviated and anxiety and stress levels reduced. By regulating calcium and phosphorous levels in the thyroid gland, bone loss can prevented. Reflexology also helps the ovaries to regulate their oestrogen secretions and the uterus to maintain its natural health and flexibility.