Embracing Menopause: A Functional OBGYN’s Approach
By Christy Evans, Functional OBGYN
Embracing Menopause: A Functional OBGYN’s Approach


Menopause is a natural and beautiful transition in a woman’s life, but it can also bring unexpected and wild changes. From shifting hormones to changes in energy, sleep, and emotions, this phase can feel like an emotional and physical rollercoaster. But the good news? You don’t have to go through it alone. By blending the wisdom of traditional OB-GYN care with the whole-body approach of functional medicine, we can create a path that supports you with love, patience, and care.


Why Menopause Can Feel Challenging

Menopause isn’t just about the end of menstrual cycles—it’s a profound shift that affects every part of you. Some of the most common challenges include:

  1. Hormonal Ups and Downs – Your body is adjusting to new levels of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, which can bring on hot flashes, mood swings, and changes in energy.
  2. Metabolism and Weight Changes – It’s common to notice a shift in weight and how your body stores fat, often due to changes in insulin and metabolism.
  3. Emotional and Mental Well-Being – Feelings of anxiety, sadness, and brain fog can arise as your body adjusts to new hormone levels.
  4. Sleep Disruptions – Tossing and turning at night? Many women experience lighter sleep or trouble staying asleep due to hormonal shifts.
  5. Bone and Heart Health – With lower estrogen, your bones and heart need extra love and care to stay strong and healthy.


A Heartfelt, Whole-Body Approach


When we bring together the best of OB-GYN expertise with the nurturing care of functional medicine, we create a truly supportive approach to menopause. Here’s how this combination can help:


1. Gentle Hormonal Support Just for You


We offer hormone replacement therapy (HRT) when needed and safe, while also taking a deeper look at your unique body and lifestyle. This means we explore bioidentical hormones, supplements, and natural solutions that fit your specific needs with kindness and care.


2. Nourishing Your Body with Love


Food is one of the best ways to care for yourself during menopause. Functional medicine encourages whole, nourishing foods that balance blood sugar, support digestion, and keep energy levels steady. Some comforting nutrition strategies include:

  • Eating vibrant, whole foods that make you feel good
  • Enjoying healthy fats and proteins to support your hormones
  • Boosting essential nutrients like magnesium, vitamin D, and omega-3s


3. Supporting Your Mind and Heart


Menopause comes during a time that is often full of life responsibilities and stressors - careers, growing children, taking care of older parents, etc. We aim to uncover any hidden imbalances that might be contributing to anxiety, mood swings, or brain fog, and build into your life simple, loving practices to manage stress like meditation, breathwork, and targeted supplements to support your busy active life and keep you mentally and emotionally feeling your best. 


4. Creating Restful, Peaceful Sleep


Sleep is essential for metabolic, hormonal, and mental health.  Your body deserves rest, and sometimes it just needs a little extra support.  We go into depth about what causes sleep disturbance during the menopausal transition, how to honor your circadian rhythm and create mindful evening routines that help signal to your body that it’s time to relax and unwind.


5. Optimizing for Longevity - lengthening your Health Span


We monitor important health markers of bone density and heart health and focus on daily lifestyle choices that nurture you for the long run. We advocate for incorporating strength training into your week to maintain muscle mass, balance, and body composition to keep you strong well into your 70s, 90s, and beyond.  By incorporating movement, key supplements, and joyful activities, we can keep your bones strong and your heart full of vitality.


You Are Not Alone


Menopause is a time of transformation, and with the right care, it can be a time of renewal and empowerment. By blending the expertise of OB-GYN care with the nurturing, root-cause approach of functional medicine, we can support your journey with love, patience, and the reassurance that you are beautifully cared for.

You deserve to feel vibrant, supported, and at peace during this new chapter. Almond’s Menopause Program takes a loving, personalized approach.  Learn more about it here. 



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