Overview

This overview focuses on how Integrative Health can be useful with prevention and treatment of health concerns that are specific to women.  As with all aspects of our health, women’s health issues do not exist in isolation; focusing on menstrual problems, menopause, fibroids, endometriosis, and other challenges must be done with the full picture in mind.  Integrative Health emphasizes mindful awareness and general self-care along with conventional and integrative approaches to health and well-being.  The Circle of Health highlights eight areas of self-care: Surroundings; Personal Development; Nutrition; Recharge; Family, Friends, and Co-workers; Spirit and Soul; Mind and Emotions; and Physical Activity.  Many studies have shown potential benefit with certain complementary approaches.  The patient narrative below provides an example of what might be covered in women’s health-focused encounters, specifically around polycystic ovarian syndrome and menopause. 

Meet the Patient

Julie is a 24-year-old who college senior.  She presents to discuss worsening and contraceptive options.  In reviewing her gynecologic history, Julie reports irregular and infrequent periods, occurring over the last few years.  On exam, she has significant acne over her face and back.  There are scattered coarse, dark hairs present on her chin and chest.  Based on this presentation, her provider suspects a diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).  Laboratory evaluation shows normal TSH and prolactin levels.  A pelvic ultrasound demonstrates a normal appearing uterus; however, multiple simple cysts are present in her bilateral ovaries.  Without additional findings to suggest an alternative diagnosis, Julie diagnosis is PCOS.  Subsequent labs reveal an elevated hemoglobin A1C of 5.8% and a cholesterol panel showing elevated triglycerides and LDL. 

Currently, Julie attends classes to finish her undergraduate degree while working part-time.  Her days are often hectic—she eats fast food for at least one meal a day and does not exercise.  She gained 10 pounds over the past year and her BMI is 29 kg/m².  She often mindlessly snacks at night while doing homework, eating a bag of chips or candy.  Julie feels overwhelmed by her responsibilities, which often keep her up late into the night so that she only averages 4-5 hours of sleep.  She has not had much time to explore her interests, hobbies, or even to spend time reconnecting with friends. 

Personal Health Inventory

On her Personal Health Inventory (PHI) Julie rates herself a 2 out of 5 for her overall physical well-being and a 3 for overall mental and emotional well-being. When asked what matters most to her and why she wants to be healthy, Julie responds: