Q&A: Double-Certified MD, Nutritionist, and Brand Partner, Dr. Amy Shah Sits Down with Nature’s Bounty® to Discuss a Women’s Health Journey Through Perimenopause.

As we approach the New Year, the Nature’s Bounty® team had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Amy Shah, a double board-certified MD and nutritionist. Dr. Shah is widely recognized as a wellness expert, author, and speaker, and is celebrated for her holistic approach to health and wellness. Our discussion with Dr. Shah delved into a woman’s journey through perimenopause and menopause, as well as her invaluable insights and general tips for overall wellness.

In our conversation with Dr. Shah, provided insights into misunderstood symptoms of perimenopause and challenges women face when discussing these symptoms. In addition, Dr. Shah explained changes during perimenopause and offered advice on maintaining vaginal health and how women can leverage Nature’s Bounty® Optimal Solutions® supplements to support this journey.

NB: What are the most misunderstood symptoms of perimenopause that women should be aware of in their 30s, 40s, and 50s?

AS: You will have mood changes, you will have muscle loss, and you will have bone loss. These symptoms are misunderstood because they are often overlooked. These symptoms are often dismissed by professionals as being a result of aging, poor nutrition, or lifestyle.

NB: Why do many women feel silenced or overlooked when discussing symptoms of perimenopause with healthcare providers? How can women better advocate for themselves?

AS: Believe it or not, perimenopause is not discussed in medical school or training and there is currently no blood test that can diagnose perimenopause. Because of this, there are a lot of gray areas around this subject and their symptoms are often attributed to aging, depression, or other conditions.

First and foremost, it's important to acknowledge that this is happening and to accept it. Secondly, educate yourself about the symptoms, changes, and health risks associated with perimenopause and menopause. Understanding the physical and emotional aspects of this life stage can empower you to make informed decisions about your health. And lastly, advocate for personalized medical care that addresses your individual concerns. Be proactive in discussing treatment options, including hormone therapy or other interventions, with your healthcare provider.

NB: Could you explain the changes that occur during perimenopause in terms of libido, hair growth, and pH balance?

AS: During perimenopause, women may experience changes in libido, hair growth, and pH balance due to hormonal fluctuations. Libido, or sexual desire, may decrease as a result of declining estrogen and testosterone levels. This can lead to reduced interest in sexual activity and changes in sexual function (1).

The pH balance of the vagina may also be affected during perimenopause. Estrogen plays a key role in maintaining the natural acidity of the vagina, and its decline during perimenopause can lead to changes in pH balance. A supplement like Nature’s Bounty® Optimal Solutions® Healthy pH Balance is a great way to support your body’s natural ability to balance your microorganisms and promote vaginal health.* In terms of hair growth, perimenopause can bring changes such as thinning hair, loss of volume, and changes in hair texture. Fluctuating hormone levels, particularly declining estrogen, can contribute to these changes (2). One way to support growth of thicker, fuller hair, is to consider Nature’s Bounty® Optimal Solutions® Hair Growth capsules. In just one capsule per day, this unique formula delivers vital nutrients to the hair follicles and has been clinically shown to help grow thicker, fuller hair in three months.*

NB: What products in the gynecology space do you typically recommend to your patients, and what should they avoid?

AS: It is important to first educate yourself about the challenges you are experiencing, which I then tend to recommend that people focus as much as possible on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle measures before trying any medications. Once those measures are taken, discussing possible treatment options with a healthcare provider for those symptoms is the next step.

I always recommend avoiding scented feminine products such as douches, washes, and any fragrances for the vaginal area. Not only can these types of products can cause irritation (3) and may be disruptive to the vaginal microbiome, but they give women the message that they are not good enough and that they should be using fragrances and scented products to wash themselves, which is not the case.

NB: How can women maintain their vaginal health while navigating an overwhelming amount of feminine hygiene products on the market?

AS: Your body has an incredible ability to maintain vaginal health on its own. Less is more. Gentle soap and water are sufficient for good vaginal health. It's important to remember that, just like your gut, your vagina has a delicate microbiome that works to maintain its natural balance. It’s important to remember that a woman’s health journey is unique, and through informed decisions and personalized care, you can navigate this phase with grace, confidence, and optimal well-being.

Learn more about the Women’s Health products Nature’s Bounty® has to offer.

References

Leventhal, J. L. (2000). Management of libido problems in Menopause. The Permanente Journal. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6220606/

Grymowicz, M., Rudnicka, E., Podfigurna, A., Napierala, P., Smolarczyk, R., Smolarczyk, K., & Meczekalski, B. (2020, July 28). Hormonal effects on hair follicles. International journal of molecular sciences. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7432488/

Lin, N., Ding, N., Meza-Wilson, E., Manuradha Devasurendra, A., Godwin, C., Kyun Park, S., & Batterman, S. (2020, November). Volatile organic compounds in feminine hygiene products sold in the US market: A survey of products and Health Risks. Environment international. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7958867/