Ep3/Red alert:how your menstrual cycle is a sign of overall health
Your period isn't just some annoying span of time each month, its part of your entire Menstrual Cycle and your Fifth Vital Sign as a woman. Lean into what it's telling you.
Let's face it - periods can feel annoying and weird. They can be messy, painful, and downright inconvenient. But did you know that your menstrual cycle can actually give you important insight into your overall health? That's right, ladies - your cycle is a vital sign of your body's overall well-being.
I'm a BIG fan of the Menstrual Cycle and supporting the amazing rhythm that it brings to our lives....but I'm also a big fan of the wellness information it provides, as a proactive approach to women's wellness.
The Basics
Your menstrual cycle is controlled by a complex interplay of hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones work together to regulate your cycle, from the maturation of your eggs to the shedding of your uterine lining.
The Nitty-Gritty
Your menstrual cycle can tell you a lot about your reproductive health. For example, if you have irregular periods, it could be a sign of an underlying hormonal imbalance or other health condition. PLUS, if your periods are consistently heavy or painful, it could be a sign of endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or other issues.
But your menstrual cycle can also give you insight into your overall health beyond your reproductive system. Here are just a few examples:
Nutrient deficiencies: Your menstrual cycle can be a clue that you're lacking certain vitamins or minerals. For example, heavy bleeding during your period could be a sign of an iron deficiency.
Stress levels: Stress can have a major impact on your menstrual cycle. If you're under a lot of stress, you may experience irregular periods or even miss a period altogether.
Thyroid health: Your thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating your menstrual cycle. If your thyroid isn't functioning properly, it can cause irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or even infertility.
Gut health: Your gut health is connected to your menstrual cycle in a number of ways. For example, imbalances in your gut microbiome can lead to inflammation, which can in turn impact your hormone levels and menstrual cycle.
All of these signs and symptoms can lead to significant health implications if left un-addressed.....tuning into your entire menstrual cycle and tapping into this beautiful sign of health can help you head off issues before they become bigger problems.
So, what can you do to ensure that your menstrual cycle is a healthy one? As a holistic health coach, I believe in taking a comprehensive approach to menstrual health. Here are some tips to get you started:
Eat a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help support your overall health and hormonal balance. Skip the processed convenience foods and opt for whole foods instead, so your body gets the most nourishment out of your foods without the added garbage.
Manage stress: Whether it's through meditation, exercise, or simply taking some time for yourself each day, finding ways to manage stress can have a major impact on your menstrual health. If you're interested, check out the blog where I shared my Top 3 Ways to Decrease Stress
Get enough sleep: Sleep is crucial for hormonal balance, so make sure you're getting enough shut-eye each night. If you need some help in this area, check out my course Sleep Yourself Well. This is the very first topic I cover with my clients because I truly believe sleep is foundational for your health and wellbeing. Plus, it's helpful in regulating your menstrual cycle.
Support your gut health: Eating fermented foods, taking probiotics, and avoiding inflammatory foods can all help support a healthy gut microbiome. That tip about skipping processed convenience foods fits in here too...those foods often cause inflammation and reek havoc on your gut health.
Practice self-care: Whether it's taking a relaxing bath or treating yourself to a massage, taking care of yourself is crucial for overall health and well-being.
To Sum It Up
Your menstrual cycle is a vital sign of your overall health. PAY ATTENTION TO IT and take steps to support your reproductive and overall health. If something doesn't feel right with your cycle, listen to your intuition and partner with a healthcare professional. You are your best advocate my dear friend.