Rochelle McKay-Masterton ND – She Oak Natural Fertility, Maleny, Queensland - writes articles for free distribution to residents on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Menstrual cycle issues, pregnancy…many topics are covered. Some of these articles are available here with more being added.

These mini-articles have not been written as a comprehensive description of health conditions, symptoms and remedies. Rather they are enticing 'nutshells' of current concerns. Each mini-article is designed to prod us into self-awareness. Each of us is an expert of our own body and health but most of us may not feel quite that way! By becoming more self-aware and listening to what our body tells us can nudge us along the path towards vibrant living. Most of us need a little help so read the articles, and see what resonates with you - what part of you needs a little more care? Can we help?

Fertility is about the both of us…honey!

Do you want to become pregnant but feel your body and lifestyle are tired and toxic? Are you feeling swamped by all the information on electromagnetic disturbance on our bodies, potentially affecting your unborn before entering into the world? Is eating certain fish really going to harm your unborn baby as the newspapers are saying? Is sperm even more vulnerable than a woman’s eggs to toxic exposure and nutritional deficiency?

Parenting starts before conception. Pre conceptual care is a common sense approach and a powerful tool to optimise outcomes for the health of both parents and baby and is one of the best things you can do for your desired new arrival. It is well established that a couple wanting to conceive a healthy child must attend to their bodies before conception occurs, to optimise the child’s chance of a healthy constitution, and establishing the best possible beginning to a wonderful life.

It is well known now that the health of the soon to be parents before conception can have an effect on the health of the egg, the sperm and the embryo. By addressing your health through diet and nutrition and changing some lifestyle habits we can increase our fertility and improve our chances of conception and a successful pregnancy outcome.

back to top of page

Fertility Issues and Ovulation Variables

An ovulation problem is any condition (usually hormonal) that prevents the release of a mature egg from your ovaries. Possible symptoms: absent or infrequent periods and abnormally light or heavy bleeding. How does ovulation determine when I can get pregnant? To be fruitful and multiply, you must have sexual intercourse during the period spanning one to two days before ovulation to about 24 hours afterward. The reason: Sperm cells can live for two or three days, but an egg survives no more than 24 hours after ovulation — unless, of course, fertilization occurs.

If you have sex near the time of ovulation, you'll increase your chances of getting pregnant. And you'll be happy to know that the odds are with you: In normally fertile couples, there is a 20 percent chance of getting pregnant each cycle. About 85 percent of women who have sex without using birth control will get pregnant within one year. You can try to boost your likelihood of getting pregnant by learning to pinpoint exactly when you ovulate and by familiarizing yourself with the cyclic hormonal and physical changes that take place in your body each month. You can also use this knowledge to attempt birth control by avoiding intercourse near the time of ovulation. It is as easy as charting your menstrual cycle. Once you are familiar with charting your cycle you can then see where the problem lies. Either a short luteal phase can be seen (second half of the cycle) which may suggest a progesterone insufficiency resulting in symptoms of PMT and oestrogen excess. A short follicular phase (first half of the cycle) suggests oestrogen excess, as in conditions as endometriosis, PCOS and fibroids. She Oak Natural Fertility offers a supportive service specialising in Natural Fertility Management. Kits to start charting your menstrual cycle can be purchased by mail for $160. Alternatively an initial appointment is all you need to get started charting your cycle, with follow up appointments to help you be confident and clear in your interpretations.

back to top of page

Enrichment of your life's journey

Facilitating your health process, helping you to address your situation or heath issue is a delight! To be able to work through your condition and come to the light at the end of the tunnel is both rewarding for myself and for you. We can have a myriad reasons for a health condition and addressing the emotional body is important, granted most of us cannot see it, but it can be as stubborn as our own health condition. If we are made up of a spiritual self, emotional self as well as our clearly visable self, it really does make sense to be addressing all if we want to shift and transform these stubborn molecules to gain greater healing on all levels.

There is a basic fundamental skeleton of knowledge that you can follow to help you gain the shift in your health condition you require and there are many options depending on what you are drawn to. If you truly want to work with your health on a holistic level there is a commitment to the long term process which will gain you a deeper awareness of self and others, which filters out to a greater appreciation of humanity and an enrichment of your life’s purpose and journey. Restructuring diet alone can change your energy levels, which gives you energy consistently throughout the day, alleviating ups and downs and tiredness. Most people don’t realize they can improve their quality of life and increase their energy because they are so used to operating in the same way everyday and therefore creating a sense of “normality” which they accept.

Understanding that what you eat and what your family has eaten before you came into being, creates a lot of what is going on in the body now and why you may be feeling the way you do. And further on the topic of dealing with low energy and hormonal imbalances is to deal with the stress placed on the body. Nine times out of ten people are presenting with adrenal exhaustion and this needs to be addressed, do you ever wonder why you can’t get all your energy back even when you are working on decreasing stress in your life and listening to inspirational talkers and doing all the right things? If the adrenals have atrophied then they need physical nurturing. If a car has a flat tire does it need to get pumped up with what it needs or do we think about it and wait and see if it will happen by itself?

back to top of page

Never too old!

Whether initiating into menses or entering menopause, we are never too old to learn of the intricacies and wonders of our bodies. Let us inspire the creation of loving interactions between all generations using wholesome knowledge and supportive communication. Let us share awareness and teach respect for our bodies.

Being woman is to be empowered partly by our capacity to co-create life. Being empowered requires the responsible passage of knowledge to our children or our friends’ children, strengthening the bonds between us. Every woman should know of fertility solutions rather than the synthetic pill or other invasive devices. Often women do but they still opt for the pill. Why? If we take the time to know and understand our body we learn why the pill is so unnecessary. If taking the pill for specific issues such as acne or period pain, we should be informed that correction can occur with natural intervention as can be achieved with so many other health issues.

People I speak to seem to think that natural contraception is old fashioned and inaccurate. One person I spoke to said she used natural contraceptive methods guided by a book and still got pregnant. Her husband became angry with her and the method. There are some things that are just not meant to be learnt from a book! It should be passed experientially between women as essential information rather than being dismissed too easily. Learning to chart our own cycle with assistance is easy and accurate and it may show other abnormalities long before they become a disease. We recognise fertile times and infertile times knowing exactly when a baby can be created or when abstinence or barrier contraception is necessary.

back to top of page

Tu parle progesterone?

From adolescent to menopause:
Signs of progesterone deficiency:

• Lack of breast development
• PMT No ovulation
• Short luteal phase
• Migraines before period
• Spotting
• Irregular cycles
• Anxiety, nervousness
• Intolerance of the pill
• Fatigue / glandular swelling
• Short menstrual cycle
• Premature labour
• Recurrent miscarriage
• Heavy flow with clotting
• Pregnant suffering from depression, irritability
• Post natal depression
• Peri-menopause distress

These are all signs of progesterone deficiency. As women, we rely on the balanced synergy of two potent and interactive hormones, progesterone and oestrogen. It is important to understand that symptoms of progesterone deficiency are often related simply to an inadequate diet, going too long without food, food intolerances, vitamin or mineral deficiency or mental / emotional stress issues.

For women in their 40’s, building up progesterone levels alone may help relieve hot flushes, normalize periods and alleviate PMT. Progesterone also maintains the early stages of pregnancy promoting the vitally important health status of the uterine lining. If your progesterone is low, pregnancy may occur but you may never know it, as your fertilized egg doesn’t properly implant. Menstruation may be a few days late, perhaps a little heavier than normal, with a few more cramps than usual, but it may actually have been an early miscarriage.

Deficient progesterone production sets women up for the consequences of hormonal imbalance including oestrogen dominance. This is potentially what is happening to stressed working women and mothers. As if this were not enough, many women are also suffering the physical costs of prescribed synthetic hormone birth control pills, affecting further distortion of their natural hormonal balance. These are the major factors behind the "female problems" of so many women aged 25 and beyond. They find themselves diagnosed with all kinds of abnormal manifestations; everything from fibroid breasts and uterus, to hypothyroidism, weight gain, depression and fatigue. Unfortunately medical intervention often prescribes synthetic or foreign progestins, oestrogen, or both. The eventual outcome inevitably results in greater hormonal malaise and more curious covert side effects. 

No one can change the nature of our modern world or the need for women and mothers to work attempting to gain fair financial reward for their vocational efforts in order to support their families. However, ignorance of the need for suitable relaxation activities and the impact of continual high stressed lifestyles have a terrible price for individuals, families and communities alike. We need to transform attitudes, bring balance to our bodies and lifestyles and perceptions of stressful events. Providing our bodies with ample natural nutrients through good food choices and quality supplements will help restore the synergy of our body when we have depleted some of our reserves.  

back to top of page

Time for the change, really?

Yes, the menstrual cycle is another casualty of stress, especially prolonged stress.

The stimulus for ovulation can be turned off, downgraded, causing irregular menstruation or dysfunctional uterine bleeding. You may think it’s a normal bleed coming irregularly but it may be declining progesterone as a consequence of stress, increasing PMT but with no other menopausal symptoms.

Cessation of ovarian function before 40 is defined as premature ovarian failure.

Stress… there are 3 phases to stress commencing with the “fight or flight” mechanisms. We learn pretty quickly if we have appropriate stress release techniques. Adrenaline circulates around your system putting you on edge and disturbs the digestive system. Exercise, correct nutrients, effective management help significantly. But the usual strategies of excess carbs, chocolates, and the TV couch herald the maladaptation phase of stress; a prolonged sense of continued “overwhelm and fatigue”. Digestive function is now truly impaired and digestive enzymes remain low, creating carb binges, loss of appetite, indigestion, bloating and poor assimilation of nutrients. The body must manifest energy continuously just to keep up. The average diet continues, cortisol from adrenals remains high impeding all other hormonal activity, and our liver gets a flogging converting some of our intake into fat. The kidneys hold on to too much sodium and excrete too much potassium, the mineral essential for normal muscular and nervous system function.

back to top of page

Diabetes

Of all the most preventable of serious diseases, diabetes is one that would have to be most near the top of the list. In native societies, it is almost unheard of. It is much more prevalent in the affluent societies and  is poorly understood by our general public other than it been seen as a disease relating to the blood sugar levels, but it is much more than that.

Diabetes is characterized by the severity of insulin availability, and insulin depletion is primarily caused by the cells in the pancreas.

There are a variety of factors which damage the cells, infection being one, the greatest cause though is ingestion of simple sugars, which apply to much load to insulin demand over a long period of time that the cells become worn out. There are four factors which make the process worse; ageing, genetics, obesity and the “hand in the cookie jar” syndrome.

Because of the increase in blood glucose levels the body will attempt to convert the excess to fats to storage and some of the fats infiltrate the arterial wall (hyperlipidemia). 75% of diabetics have moderate to severe atherosclerosis by the age of 40. The consequences can be: death of kidney cells, cataracts and glaucoma, increased heart attack, aneurysm, gangrene with eventual amputation to name but a few. Many of the medicines used by naturopaths in the treatment of vascular diseases need to be used permanently as to reduce tissue oxidation (free radical damage), improve circulation and reduce fatty deposits, in fact most of the areas of diabetic susceptibility can be improved on. Diet and weight loss are important factors that are part of the prevention strategy.

back to top of page

Sign of the times

Fortunately “alternative” professionals are reforging a pathway back into our society’s healthcare paradigm, facilitating a comprehensive health approach preventing and overcoming the myriad of conditions manifesting in our society today. With non-invasive testing we are able to detect imbalances in the body long before they become disease states, requiring diagnoses from a doctor. This is achieved by establishing a point of reference, acknowledging where the body is, and so determining what is needed to restore health.

Recently in our clinic, a deeply concerned mother attended with her 10 year old child. The child was highly anxious, disassociated from parental love and felt isolated from people. He ate a lot and exhibited extreme hyperactivity. Bedwetting was common and migraines the norm. The child was under the care of a psychologist, undertaking an extensive mental health program. There had been improvements but the mother felt there was more involved. After analyses, health issues were evident, that if left untreated could exacerbate into predisposed genetically inherited conditions or later medical diagnoses of modern day disease states. Meanwhile, the child suffered terribly. Strangely, at the prime age of 10, prostatic issues were identified that interestingly run in the family. Imbalances were noted in the hypothalamic pituitary region establishing adrenal hyper reactivity that manifested outwardly as intense anxiety and blood sugar disturbances. There were also strong indicators of bowel toxicity and parasites. 

This 10 year old was heading towards diabetes, weight gain and prostate issues, some of the most prevalent health concerns for men in today’s society. How long would it have been before he received a clinical diagnosis of disease from a Doctor. Pouring more money into the medical health system will not solve the current and ongoing health crises. Observing the early indicators of sub clinical conditions, taking responsibility for our own health, restoring balance and adjusting our lifestyle practices will. Consequently this little boy is already starting to experience the benefits of dietary change and nutrient supplementation. 

We buy a car and spend money on it as if it were a temple, however, it is the body that is the temple. Respect it, nurture it and love it. Because you have to live with it every day, it is your only enduring vehicle, it too deserves your attention. If not now, when?

back to top of page

What is your body trying to tell you?

Ever felt unwell? Had all the medical testing just to be informed that there is nothing wrong with you? There may not be a definable disease, but that does not mean the very real discomforts are in your mind. Disease does not just erupt without warning. Observable imbalances occur well before disease arises; you can feel it. Working preventatively is working holistically. Symptoms most often have common causes and awareness of causative factors is the only viable option when taking responsibility for your health. 

Because the precursors to serious health imbalances are observable in the blood, microscopy techniques including live blood analysis and clot retraction tests enable validation of early warning indicators supporting informed lifestyle changes and individualised remediation of nutritional deficiencies to rebalance the physiology. Both techniques can also track the reversal of degenerative conditions as you undertake therapeutic protocols. Correcting the internal environment of the body allows a return to harmonious and synergistic states that promotes wellbeing.

Whilst live blood analysis assesses fundamental parameters of health, a clot retraction test has the potential to isolate more specific causal factors including hormonal, organ and parasitic manifestations. Combined together and supported by urinary analysis, you have a complete non-invasive array of analytic techniques capable of directing your choices and nurturing your body toward the ultimate of optimal wellbeing as a woman you know the importance of nurturing others. Nurture yourself now, if not now, when? Our comprehensive analytical consultation outlines the priorities you will need to attend to.

back to top of page

Ripening gracefully (menopause)

Symptoms of menopause include a change in the period, low libido, dryness, hot flashes, sleep problems and mood changes. A change in the period is the first thing many women notice about peri-menopause. Your period may no longer be regular. How much you bleed could change, being lighter than normal, or a heavier flow. Periods may be shorter or last longer. These are all normal transformative changes in your reproductive system as you ripen.

Hot flashes are your body's struggle to regulate temperature with a lack of oestrogen. This may continue a few years after menopause and in rare cases, from 5 to 10 years. A contemporary theory on hot flashes regards the increase in body temperature as setting up a healthier environment, burning toxins and stimulating the immune response. Another is that they represent surges of creative and positive energy – what a power house!

Sleep disturbances are common as night sweats may wake you. Perhaps sleep does not come easily, or you wake too early. You may even have trouble falling back to sleep if you wake during the night. Unfortunately, this can lead to a feeling of sleep deprivation, but perhaps should be regarded more as an indicator of unresolved emotional issues.

Mood swings can also be significant, predominantly due to change in oestrogen levels. Perhaps you are feeling appreciably more moody, irritable, or depressed around the time of menopause. It’s not clear why this happens, but as women do we really need to ask, “Is there is a connection between changes in oestrogen levels and our emotions? The stress of adapting to change, including body remodelling, family pressures such as growing children or aging parents, modern living in general, or always feeling tired can also contribute to the moody flares.

A variety of natural treatments are available to help cope with the transformative symptoms of menopause. Whether pre, peri or post menopausal, there are steps you can take to remove the cluttering toxic influences of modern life, using the symptoms that you experience as sign posts, rather than distresses to be avoided. Suppression is not the answer to a successful transition, whereas a positive attitude, a well balanced nutritious diet, exercise, detoxification and nature’s herbs are. There are wholesome nurturing strategies every woman can assume and pass on to make the menopausal transition the sacred initiation to the full womanly guiding roll it should be. If not now, when?

back to top of page

The Sweet Solution

Do you have a metabolic “time bomb” ticking away? The condition often begins with general feelings of unwellness, light-headed, confused, moody, depressed and tiredness or that morning or mid afternoon slump. Medical blood tests have revealed nothing and it is explained that you do not have a health problem. You accept your symptoms as normal. After all, other people complain of similar feelings. Your symptoms gradually worsen and finally more blood tests prove that a health problem does exist and you are diagnosed with diabetes or poly cystic syndrome. You don’t “just get” a disease, the condition was developing sub-clinically for years: you felt it. You didn’t “just get” a full-blown disease state. Preventative treatment could have stopped the progression and restored your health.

Working preventatively is working holistically. Many of your symptoms have common causes and are interwoven. Becoming aware of causative factors and changing them for the better is obviously the only viable option if we are serious about taking responsibility for our health. With the explosion of health concerns and health costs in our community, simple common sense tells us specialised professional care - treating the cause - is always the best choice. Fortunately you are one phone call away from correcting the discomforts and restoring vitality. If not now, when?

back to top of page