Women’s health

The subject of health for the different sexes has become a major feature of healthcare in the twenty-first century and special centers and groups have been set up to deal with the specific problems encountered by the modern woman and man. These centers have enabled women, in particular, to get specialist care for many of their day-to-day health concerns. Although modern medicine is making radical improvements in the treatment of individual complaints, the use of herbal and natural treatments can often alleviate many of the symptoms and enhance the effect of regular medicines.

Always consult a health professional if the symptoms you have are chronic or long term and always inform your health worker of any natural remedies that you are using. It is important that all the information about your condition is available so that your treatment is refined accordingly.

Menstruation

Women begin their 28-day cycle at about twelve years of age and continue (except during pregnancy or some illnesses) until they are around 50. The cycle contains many hormonal changes that culminate in the shedding of the lining of the uterus and the egg; this shedding is referred to as menstruation or “having a period”.

This cycle affects women very differently. Some scarcely notice any changes, have no pain, and no emotional problems. Many suffer from menstrual problems, such as bloating, uterine cramps, pelvic pain, constipation, backache, headaches, fatigue, and other unpleasant and incapacitating symptoms for almost the whole 20 days and refer (understandably) to menstruation as “the curse”.

The four complains most deal with are amenorrhea (absence of, or scanty periods), dysmenorrheal (painful periods), menorrhagia (heavy bleeding), and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Essential oils are a useful part of the total treatment that should consist of herbal and homeopathic remedies, relaxation, and, where necessary, consultation with a health practitioner.