
Tuning into the cycles and rhythms of your innate wisdom
Our Functional Approach to
Menstrual Health + Hormones
Your Cycle Is a Vital Sign β Letβs Listen
Gynecological issues are commonβbut they arenβt normal. Whether you're facing painful periods, irregular cycles, PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, or PMS/PMDD, these symptoms are your body's way of signaling that something deeper needs attention.
Functional medicine offers a holistic, personalized approach that goes beyond symptom suppression. We focus on the root causes of hormonal and reproductive imbalancesβaddressing how your nutrition, gut health, stress, inflammation, toxin exposure, and lifestyle all contribute to your menstrual and gynecological health.
Lifestyle Approach to Menstrual Health
Nutrition
Eating whole, unprocessed foods that you prepare at home helps stabilize blood sugar and reduce inflammationβtwo key factors in easing symptoms like PMS, cramps, and irregular cycles. Aim for at least 35 grams of fiber daily from vegetables, legumes, seeds, and whole grains to support estrogen metabolism and digestive health. Itβs also important to limit added sugars and ultra-processed foods, which can disrupt insulin function and worsen menstrual symptoms. Choosing organic options when possible can help reduce exposure to hormone-disrupting pesticides and antibiotics. Incorporating a variety of colorful fruits, vegetables, herbs, and teas provides powerful phytonutrients that support detoxification and reduce inflammation. Alcohol, while common, can worsen hormone imbalance and increase symptoms like mood swings and breast tendernessβlimiting intake to no more than five drinks per week, or avoiding it altogether, can be especially beneficial for menstrual health.
Movement and Body Composition
Daily physical activity helps regulate your menstrual cycle, supports mood, and reduces symptoms like cramps and fatigue. Aim for at least 45 minutes of movement each dayβwhether itβs brisk walking, yoga, or strength training. Building and maintaining lean muscle mass through resistance exercises improves insulin sensitivity and reduces inflammation. Keeping a healthy body composition can also lower the risk of hormone-related conditions like PCOS, fibroids, and heavy bleeding, since excess body fat can act as an endocrine organ and contribute to estrogen dominance. Consistent movement and balanced nutrition together form the foundation for cycle stability and long-term hormone resilience.
Toxin and Environmental Exposure
Reducing your exposure to common hormone disruptors can help ease symptoms and support your bodyβs natural detox pathways. Avoid unnecessary antibiotics when possible, as they can impair gut health and your bodyβs ability to eliminate excess estrogen. Support detoxification daily by staying hydrated, eating fiber-rich colorful foods, and exercising regularly. Limit your use of plastics, synthetic fragrances, and conventional personal care productsβespecially those used near the reproductive areaβas many contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals linked to worsened menstrual symptoms and increased risk of hormone-sensitive conditions like endometriosis or fibroids. Opting for clean, low-toxin alternatives can make a significant difference in hormone balance over time.
Stress and Sleep
Chronic stress can suppress ovulation, contribute to PMS and PMDD, and disrupt the delicate hormonal rhythms that guide your cycle. Incorporating daily mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or gentle yoga can help regulate the stress response and improve both physical and emotional well-being. Rest is not just about sleepβit can include time in nature, creative pursuits, or unplugging from screens and technology. Prioritize getting 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night, as this is when your body recalibrates and restores hormonal balance. When stress is managed and sleep is prioritized, your cycle becomes more regular, your symptoms diminish, and your body is better equipped to thrive.
Common Conditions We Support
Painful or heavy periods
Irregular or absent cycles (amenorrhea)
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
Endometriosis
Uterine fibroids
PMS and PMDD
Hormonal acne
Low energy, mood swings, and bloating
HPV and Cervical Dysplasia/Carcinoma
Endometrial Polyps, Hyperplasia, and Cancer
Urinary Tract Infections
Vaginitis (Yeast, Bacterial Vaginosis)
Sexually Transmitted Infections