Many women benefit from naturopathic medicine tremendously, in fact, they make up the bulk of our patients as natural health care professionals. Let me show you 12 reasons why women should consider an integrative approach to healthcare, their doctor and a naturopath.
Many women benefit significantly from naturopathic medicine, forming the majority of patients seeking natural health care. Like men, some women may neglect their own health and well-being, prioritizing the care of their children and family.
Taking time to care for yourself is crucial. Remember the airplane advice: put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others. If you are run down and exhausted, you cannot effectively care for those around you. Preventative medicine, particularly naturopathic medicine, is key to maintaining health and preventing illness.
Women comprise three-quarters of naturopathic patients, seeking help for various health concerns such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopause, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), breast lumps, infertility, endometriosis, and complex conditions like lupus and scleroderma.
As a naturopath, I believe in treating the person, not just their health complaint. Many women prefer drug-free treatment methods over invasive medical procedures and pharmaceutical prescriptions. Some patients choose to consult both their medical doctor and naturopath, benefiting from the best of both worlds.
I retired from clinical practice in 2019 but always respected each patient’s decision regarding their healthcare choices. Many women sought my expertise to explore all available options, often finding that the conventional medical approach was not their only path to health. The age of “doctor knows best” is over; now, we have Dr. Google to provide different perspectives, empowering women to make informed decisions about their health.
Here are 12 reasons why you may consider visiting a natural health care professional:
1. Identify and Treat the Cause: Focus on the root cause of your health problems, not just the symptoms.
2. Avoid Masking Conditions: Treating symptoms alone can lead to more complex conditions, especially with multiple pharmaceuticals.
3. Comprehensive Care: If conventional medicine is failing or falling short, a naturopath can help you make informed decisions alongside your medical doctor.
4. Personalized Attention: Receive more than a five-minute consultation; naturopaths take time to understand your health condition and needs.
5. Multiple Treatment Options: Access a variety of treatment options beyond standard medical advice.
6. Lifestyle and Diet Support: Gain support in improving your lifestyle, stress levels, and diet.
7. Preventative Health: Focus on disease prevention and maintaining optimal health, not just treating illness.
8. Side Effect Concerns: Address long-term side effects of prescription drugs or unpleasant side effects.
9. Holistic Symptom Treatment: Avoid treating only one symptom at a time; a naturopath addresses the whole person.
10. Integrated Approach: For complicated health conditions treated by multiple doctors, a naturopath provides an integrated analysis and approach.
11. Supplement Guidance: Navigate the confusing health supplement industry and find effective alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs.
12. Clarify Health Claims: Receive help in understanding health product claims and making informed choices.
Natural medicine offers a holistic, preventative approach that prioritizes your well-being. By consulting a naturopath, you can explore comprehensive treatment options, receive personalized care, and make informed decisions about your health. Take the first step towards better health and consider the benefits of natural medicine today.
If you’re seeking a naturopathic practitioner, visit your national society of naturopaths and find a practitioner to suit. Here are a few links:
New Zealand Natural Medicine Association