Menopause & Perimenopause

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine support in Amsterdam

What is menopause?

Menopause is a natural transition — but for many women it comes with symptoms that significantly affect daily life and wellbeing. Perimenopause, the transition leading up to menopause, can begin several years before periods stop and is often the most symptom-heavy phase.

Menopause is defined as 12 consecutive months without a period. Perimenopause is everything leading up to that point — and it can last anywhere from a few months to several years.

Common symptoms

Every woman's experience is different. Commonly reported symptoms include:

Hot flushes and night sweats
Sleep disturbances
Mood changes — irritability, anxiety, low mood
Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
Fatigue
Vaginal dryness and discomfort
Changes in libido
Joint pain
Irregular periods during perimenopause
Weight changes
Headaches

Vulvar and vaginal changes

Declining oestrogen levels during and after menopause can cause changes in the vulvar and vaginal tissues — including dryness, thinning, and increased sensitivity or discomfort during sex. These symptoms are common but often not discussed.

If you are experiencing vulvar or vaginal pain alongside menopausal symptoms, this is an area I have particular clinical experience in. You can read about it more here.

Chinese medicine approach

In Chinese medicine, menopause is understood as a natural redistribution of the body's resources — a shift, not a decline. Symptoms arise when this transition is not smooth, often reflecting patterns of deficiency or imbalance that have been building over time.

The most common pattern associated with menopausal symptoms is kidney Yin deficiency — characterised by heat signs, dryness, and restlessness. But as with all conditions in Chinese medicine, the approach is always individual.

With acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, the aim is to support the body through this transition — easing the symptoms that are most affecting your daily life, and helping to restore a sense of balance and steadiness.

Curious whether Chinese medicine could support you?

You're welcome to book a free 20-minute introductory call.