How to support our young women starting their menstrual cycles
WHAT’S GOING ON FOR OUR DAUGHTERS, NIECES, SISTERS AND FRIENDS AS THEY START THEIR MENSTRUAL CYCLES?
Menstruation usually occurs between the ages of twelve and thirteen, but can be between nine and even eighteen. The start (Menarche) is dependent on body weight, and usually occurs after achieving around 47.5 kgs, with a body fat percentage of approximately 26-28.
This age is characterised by not just physical changes, but strong emotions also, and anxiety and depression are very common at this time. There is often also a change in the oiliness of the skin, and a tendency to blush more easily (which usually passes). It can take up to 40 cycles for ovulation and menstruation to become more regular. Ovulation does not occur in about 90% of the first year’s cycles.
Charting the cycle can be really helpful at this early stage, to help predict when the next period might arrive, and also for future reference. Comparing your cycle at any age with those of other women is not really helpful, but comparing to what is normal for you (hence the charting) is the best way to assess any changes and their meaning, and can be a real asset to women as they age and their cycles change, to have a benchmark of their “normal”.
Nutritionally, the rapid growth rates at this time means that there are much higher demands for minerals such as zinc, iron, magnesium and calcium (some of which are highly deficient in our soils and should potentially be supplemented). All the physical changes going on can be very tiring also for our young women, so good sleep and rest is important (but not easy to get in the age of distraction!). Regular exercise is also paramount, but we need to support the energy levels first, as iron can be low, which means exercise can be very exhausting!
Maintaining a healthy blood sugar level and avoiding caffeine are important at this time too.
We use warming circulation-supporting herbs, nervous system tonics and foods that encourage good hormone balance to help our young women into a healthy cycle for life. We also provide great education for them, so that they are empowered, and understand the difference between “normal” and “not normal” when it comes to period symptoms.
Book a consult for the young woman in your life that you would love some nurturing support for at this most precious time of life. We provide a gentle environment and respectful consults that go at the pace they can manage, with easy steps to introduce into their lives to provide great outcomes.
ask@healhealth. co.nz
Book: www.healhealth.co.nz/contact
