Menopausal transition inevitably occurs later in a woman’s
life, usually between 45 and 55 years old. As women age, estrogen levels
gradually decline, ovaries stop producing eggs and menstruation eventually
stops. However, some women experience postmenopausal bleeding, which can be
heavy at times. Some herbal remedies may help to stop the bleeding, although
there is little scientific evidence that herbs actually work, as there was no
research completed on the topic. We would recommend you to consult your
physician before taking any herbal supplements to fight this condition.
Here are some of the most popular organic and natural
supplements, considered to be effective in addressing post menopausal bleeding are
briefly presented below.
Alfalfa
Alfalfa which
balances hormones, lowers cholesterol, and eases vaginal inflammation when
eaten in itself, taken as a supplement, or infused in a sitz bath. Alfalfa is
an excellent source of the Vitamin K, which may help to minimize or completely
end the postmenopausal bleeding.
Vitamin K is manufactured by friendly bacteria in the
intestines. If you take antibiotics for any reason, it may kill bacteria
without asking if they are friend or foe. Vitamin K might make the difference
between bleeding and not bleeding, or at least less bleeding rather than more. It
is recommended to take a vitamin K as supplement, consume acidophilus or eat yogurt to
help replace the friendly bacteria, and/or eat foods rich in vitamin K.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is another favorite gynaecological ingredient
due to its menstrual symptom-relieving properties. It is a menopausal herb that
acts specifically on the uterus. It contains photochemical and plant estrogens
that mimic your body's natural estrogen production. It has also been effective
in regulating bleeding. The herb has minimal negative effects, with users
sometimes experiencing mild headaches. Black cohosh has been prescribed by
German doctors since the 1950's to reduce uterine cramping.
Tinctures and tablets containing extract of black cohosh are
recommended to lower blood pressure and to stimulate the pituitary gland. You
can also try cinnamon bark tincture to address the bleeding. Six to twelve
drops of it on your tongue or mixed with drinking water or juice and taken
thrice daily can do wonders in alleviating lower back pain and treating uterine
haemorrhaging.
Shepherd’s Purse
Shepherd’s purse (CapseIla bursapastoris) is a weed that
originated in the Middle East, but it now grows across the globe. Modern
herbalists and naturopaths use the entire plant for various treatments.
Shepherd’s purse is dried and infused in a liquid extract or as a tincture. Naturopaths
use Shepherd's purse tea to stop all types of hemorrhages, including the
regulation of bleeding and spotting. It helps to regulate progesterone levels
and has androgenic properties.
However, there is no scientific research that supports the use of this herbal remedy to control bleeding. Shepherd's purse can cause side effects such as thyroid enlargement, low blood pressure, trouble walking, unusual drowsiness, enlarged pupils and respiratory paralysis.
Wild Yam
Traditionally, naturopaths used wild yam to treat
menstrual cramps and difficulties with childbirth. The plant contains a
compound that can be chemically converted into the hormone progesterone,
according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. By many practitioners
it is considered as a valid alternative to traditional hormone treatment. The
herb is used as a base for many marketed natural creams used to reduce symptoms
of menopause. As said, it is an estrogenic herb whose progestogenic properties
help alleviate post-menopausal bleeding.
In spite of the good record on the plant effectiveness in
reducing negative menopause symptoms, including postmenstrual bleeding, there
is still not much scientific evidence to validate the results. Wild yam is a
source of phytoestrogen, a plant-based estrogen, which may adversely interact
with some hormonal replacement therapies.
Life Root
Life root is an herbal remedy traditionally used in Native
American culture to hasten childbirth. Liferoot is a menopause herb that
contains plant estrogens. Life root grows
naturally throughout the United States and the entire plant is used for
medicinal purposes.
Menopausal women can use this to treat excessive or
irregular bleeding that occurs as body goes through its change. The plant is
also included in some herbal supplements designed to control irregular menses.
However, the herb contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids and is not considered safe.
The plant is toxic and should be taken with extreme care, according to
Drugs.com. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are related to hypertensive pulmonary
vascular disease and liver cancer.
Soy
Soy is a plant that contains phytoestrogens called
isoflavones. Phytoestrogens are substances that mimic the action of the female
hormone estrogen. During menopause your ovaries stop producing this hormone.
You can get soy from foods such as soy milk, soybeans and tofu. There are
also soy-containing supplements available on the market.
Soy isoflavones have been used to treat hot flashes and excessive bleeding associated with menopause. However, evidence supporting its effectiveness is still conflicting. Some studies suggest moderate relief; others suggest no relief; or the placebo effect. Possible side effects include constipation, diarrhea, nausea, bloating, and/or headache. Do not use soy-containing supplements if you have or had breast cancer.
Other Considerations
To naturally keep vaginal bleeding after menopause at
bay, strive for a serene state of mind and go on a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Stress and anxiety are major causes of psychosomatic post-menopausal symptoms
that include vaginal bleeding. Being calm and centered can do wonders for your
overall emotional, mental, and physical well-being without having to rely on
medication. Likewise, going on a sensible diet plan instead of crash dieting
can help prevent post-menopausal vaginal bleeding. Discuss your nutritional
needs with your doctor to come up with the best method to lose weight
gradually. You may desire immediate results, as far as your weight is
concerned, but being healthy should still be your top priority.
Nutritional choices have an effect on your hormonal balance.
Poor dietary choices can increase chances of bleeding during menopause. Eating
a well-balanced diet is recommended to prevent episodes of bleeding. Taking
supplemental vitamins during menopause also helps to regulate your body's
estrogen levels. You can take Vitamin A supplements and a Vitamin B complex
to help with bleeding. Taking Vitamin C is also a good way to help with the
symptoms of post-menopausal spotting. Bioflavonoids are collagen-building
nutrients that help strengthen blood vessels to reduce bleeding.
Lady's mantle and periwinkle are remedies that help promote
blood coagulation. It is also helpful to consume more green vegetables like
kale, spinach, celery and parsley to help with breakthrough bleeding.
Sources and Additional Information:
