It really is good advise and important if women are going to feel confident in finding personal solutions without compromising their bank balance or health. As someone that always looks to complementary medicine first I welcome guidance for other women on the best way to get that when starting out - regulated practitioners and registered products. There are quite a few helplines from companies that are long established with products on the high street.
I wrote this on another thread some time back and hope it might help women understand how to approach complementary medicine:
"I just wanted to write a little bit about my approach to health and hopefully share information that would be useful to women who try alternative routes.
I practise the philosophy of effecting minimal change in the body. By that I mean, only doing as much as is necessary to allow the body to find it's own balance again, for it to heal. The reason is because I respect the body is a complicated system and often times will demonstrate 'symptoms' that can resolve, given time and gentle support. When given 'too much' support it could result in apparently unconnected problems later, for instance, some people get stomach problems from using painkillers. Of course it isn't always possible or wise to continue 'suffering' - I am just suggesting taking a pause and considering a gentler approach first.
In a complex health problem I would always first choose a complementary therapy over conventional pharmaceuticals and attempt to effect minimal change. This can take longer than a pharmaceutical solution. All complementary medicine approaches take longer, herbs, accupuncture etc all need a while to effect a lasting change.
If a lasting change or pattern of coming and going of symptoms can't be achieved, then I would turn to pharmaceutical management. For me, it isn't an either or situation. I believe there isn't enough information out there for women on how to access and use complementary medicine safely and effectively and not enough respect for the part it can and does play in peoples lives.
Used with guidance, care and sensibility, I really do feel there is a big place for "first line" use of complementary medicine in supporting the menopause. It's an ideal solution to low level chronic problems - that is why there has been research and approval from the NHS for the use of things like accupuncture for sufferers of chronic headaches. Chronic problems cost the NHS a lot of money and complementary medicine can provide a solution for patients.
So, if you are trying anything 'natural' try and give it some time, find a practitioner of your chosen route that can support you while you get better, give you the guidance and confidence you need to support your own health. Every modality has a national register of qualified people, take your time to choose one that suits you. If you are buying remedies from a high street shop look for the THR symbol, which means the product has been assessed against quality standards, and you'll have information about how and when to use it.
If you only choose a registered practitioner and buy with the THR symbol you are choosing responsibly and can expect to be supported if you encounter any problems.
I have worked within complementary medicine as a Shiatsu practitioner for 15 years and received treatment and support for my health for from highly qualified individuals who also embrace conventional medicine and would always suggest using it in conjunction with complementary treatments if necessary. I hope this information is of benefit to some. "
