Navigating Perimenopause to Menopause Together

HRT: A Powerful Tool for Women’s Health – What You Need to Know

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Women's Health

As we navigate different stages of life, our health needs evolve. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a topic that often sparks curiosity, and sometimes concern. While commonly associated with menopause symptom relief, HRT offers long-term health benefits that go beyond managing hot flashes and night sweats. However, like any treatment, it also comes with considerations.

So, what should you know about the benefits and risks of HRT? Let’s explore the latest research.

The Benefits: More Than Just Symptom Relief

Many women turn to HRT for relief from menopause symptoms, but its advantages extend far beyond that. Here are some key long-term benefits, backed by research:

Supports Heart Health

– 4 fewer cases of cardiovascular disease per 1,000 women aged 50-59 who start HRT within 10 years of menopause.

– 2.5 fewer deaths per 1,000 women aged 50-59 who initiate body-identical oestradiol (oral or transdermal) with a progestogen.

– No reduction in mortality when HRT is started more than 10 years after menopause with synthetic progestogens.

Stronger Bones & Reduced Fracture Risk

– 7 fewer fractures per 1,000 women aged 50-59 who use HRT.

– 5 fewer fractures per 1,000 women aged 60-69 who take HRT.

– Osteoporosis-related fractures occur in 15 per 1,000 women aged 50-59 each year, highlighting the role of HRT in prevention.

Brain Health & Dementia Risk Reduction

– 14.5 fewer cases of dementia per 1,000 women who start oestrogen-only HRT within 10 years of menopause.

– 10 fewer cases per 1,000 women who start combined oestrogen + progestogen HRT within 10 years of menopause.

– Dementia is a leading cause of death in women, and HRT may play a role in reducing neurodegenerative risks.

May Lower the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

– 20% of women aged 60-69 have diabetes, and HRT has been linked to improved blood sugar control.

– Women who used HRT for 2.5 to 5 years had a 69% lower risk of developing diabetes.

The Risks: What to Consider

HRT isn’t one-size-fits-all, and certain factors should be considered before starting treatment:

Breast Cancer Risk

– 23 cases of breast cancer per 1,000 women aged 50-59 over five years.

– No increased breast cancer risk has been confirmed for women using body-identical progesterone, but more long-term data is needed.

Blood Clots (VTE – Venous Thromboembolism)

– 5 cases per 1,000 women aged 50-59 using HRT over five years.

– 8 cases per 1,000 women aged 60-69 using HRT over five years.

– No increased risk for women using transdermal oestrogen with or without body-identical progesterone.

Stroke Risk

– 4 cases per 1,000 women aged 50-59 each year.

– 9 cases per 1,000 women aged 60-69 each year.

– No additional stroke risk for women under 60 using transdermal oestrogen.

Finding the Right Approach

The key to HRT is personalization—the right type, dosage, and timing make all the difference. If you’re considering HRT, consult a healthcare professional to explore options that align with your individual health needs.

HRT is not just about managing menopause—it’s about long-term health and quality of life. Whether you’re just starting your research or considering treatment, staying informed empowers you to make the best decisions for your well-being.

Have questions or experiences with HRT? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Let’s keep the conversation going.

WRITTEN BY Dr Anna Ord, Menopause Doctor

Dr Anna is passionate about helping women with their perimenopause and menopause journey. She dedicates each Monday to assisting women at Drift Wellness Centre in Clarkson, and also via online appointments during the week. You can find out more about Dr Anna and book in your appointment on her website www.drannaord.com

The Power of Lymphatic Drainage Massage

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Massage, Wellness, Women's Health

Lymphatic Drainage Massage (LDM) is a gentle yet highly effective therapy designed to support the body’s natural detoxification and healing processes.

This specialized technique helps improve the flow of lymphatic fluid, aiding in the removal of toxins, waste, and excess fluid.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your immune system, reduce swelling, or simply feel lighter and more energized, LDM is a fantastic way to support your overall well-being.

What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy immune system and fluid balance. Unlike the circulatory system, which relies on the heart to pump blood, the lymphatic system depends on muscle movement and manual stimulation to keep fluid moving. LDM uses gentle, rhythmic techniques to encourage the natural drainage of lymph, helping to clear congestion, promote detoxification, and improve circulation.

7 Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage

  1. Boosts Immunity – By stimulating the lymphatic system, LDM enhances the removal of toxins and increases white blood cell production, strengthening your immune response.
  2. Reduces Swelling and Fluid Retention – Whether caused by injury, surgery, or poor circulation, LDM helps reduce puffiness and supports natural fluid balance.
  3. Enhances Recovery from Injury or Surgery – Post-surgical swelling and tissue healing can improve with LDM, making it a valuable tool for rehabilitation and recovery.
  4. Supports Detoxification – By clearing out metabolic waste and toxins, LDM can leave you feeling lighter, less bloated, and more energized.
  5. Promotes Relaxation and Stress Relief – The gentle, rhythmic movements of this massage activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to lower stress, anxiety, and tension.
  6. Improves Skin Health – By enhancing circulation and detoxification, LDM can help promote clearer, more radiant skin. It may reduce puffiness, improve hydration, and support skin regeneration, benefiting conditions like acne, eczema, or dull complexion.
  7. Supports Gut Health – LDM aids digestion by stimulating lymphatic drainage around the abdomen, reducing inflammation, and assisting in toxin removal. This can help improve digestive function, reduce bloating, and enhance nutrient absorption.

Who Can Benefit from LDM?

LDM is an excellent therapy for anyone looking to improve circulation, support their immune system, or reduce swelling.

It’s particularly beneficial for those recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, or simply seeking a natural way to detox and feel refreshed.

Ready to Experience the Benefits of LDM?

Give your body the care it deserves. Whether you’re looking for relief from swelling, a boost in immunity, or a way to feel lighter and more relaxed, Lymphatic Drainage Massage can help. Book your session with Belinda today and take a step towards better health and well-being!

Book your LYMPHATIC drainage massage today!

Child Psychotherapy Explained: Treating Emotional, Mental and Behavioural Challenges

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Children & Families, Mental health

Psychoanalytic Child Psychotherapy is a highly specialised, evidence-based
treatment which can address a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and mental
health difficulties. Psychoanalytic Child Psychotherapists are trained to be able to
treat any emotional or behavioural concern. This type of therapy is often sought
when other therapies have not been able to help.

What Can Child Psychotherapy Help With?

  • Relationship difficulties or social struggles
  • Aggression, angry outbursts
  • Low mood & depression
  • Anxiety, irrational fears, or obsessive behaviours
  • Sleep problems
  • Bed-wetting or soiling
  • School refusal
  • Risk-taking, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts
  • Emotional struggles linked to trauma, neglect, or loss
  • Emotional or behavioural problems arising from physical illness
  • Emotional or behavioural problems arising from developmental disorders such
    as autism

The Process of Psychotherapy

The process begins with an initial appointment to discuss concerns and determine if psychotherapy is the right sort of help. Following this a psychotherapy assessment might be arranged consisting of 2-3 sessions, the assessment gives the child an opportunity to experience what psychotherapy is like. The assessment is also an important step in beginning to make sense of the child’s difficulties.

Parents involvement and support of therapy is important, separate parent sessions may also be arranged alongside scheduled review meetings.

Following the assessment a review meeting takes place to think about the assessment and whether to proceed with psychotherapy. Psychotherapy sessions last for 50 minutes and usually take place weekly.

Each child’s response to therapy is different. Some may feel better after a few sessions, others need much longer. Attending regularly is important for
effectiveness.

But How Does it Work?

Psychoanalytic child psychotherapy is a non-directive, child led therapy which provides a safe space where children can explore and develop an understanding of their feelings and behaviours.

Child psychotherapists are trained to observe very subtle communications expressed by a child. Through combining observations with undirected talking, play, or creative activities, psychoanalytic child psychotherapists gather an understanding of the child’s view of the world, and of their struggles and worries. This understanding is gradually shared with child, helping them to gain insight into their difficulties,
enabling change.

If you’re considering therapy for your child or have any questions about the process, don’t hesitate to contact Tracey at Child Psychotherapy Perth based in the Northern Suburbs of Perth.

WRITTEN BY Tracy Christophi MA, MACP Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist

Tracey is a full qualified ACP Psychoanalytic Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience in specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in the UK. Now based at Drift Wellness Centre in Clarkson, Western Australia, where she is establishing her own practice to support children, young people, and families.

To find out more how Tracey can help your family and book in your appointment please go to www.childpsychotherapyperth.com.au

Why Muscle Health is Key in Menopause

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Women's Health

I had such a great time at the IMS (International Menopause Society) 19th World Congress on Menopause in Melbourne this October. After two COVID cancellations, it was amazing to finally be there, meet people from around the world, and dive into the latest research in menopause care.

Participating in the Conference offered an invaluable opportunity to stay updated with the latest advancements and best practices in menopause care and covered so many areas that effect women’s health during this stage of their life.

One of the sessions that really stood out to me was on the health risks linked to menopause and the importance of muscle health as we age. The speaker explained how menopause can change body composition – especially with increases in visceral fat (around the abdomen) and decreases in lean muscle. These shifts can lead to higher risks for things like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even cognitive decline. Seeing the data on how much muscle loss impacts our health was eye-opening.

The session stressed that muscle loss during menopause isn’t just about losing size; it’s the strength and power that’s crucial. For every 1 kg of muscle lost, the resting metabolic rate drops significantly, which is why regular exercise and a focus on muscle-preserving activities are so important. It was a great reminder of the role that nutrition and lifestyle play during menopause, and it left me feeling inspired to bring more of this focus into my practice.

Another big takeaway was the importance of protein. The recommended intake actually goes up during menopause, aiming for at least 1.2 grams per kilogram daily to support muscle preservation. So, for a 70 kg woman, that’s about 85 grams of high-quality protein every day. This was especially interesting because studies are now showing that combining good protein intake with resistance and aerobic exercise not only supports physical health but also benefits cognitive function, including memory and executive skills.

The session wrapped up with a simple but powerful message: “Muscles Matter.” Focusing on strength, good nutrition, and regular movement isn’t just about appearance – it’s essential for health, independence, and quality of life as we age. I left feeling really motivated to help my patients understand why muscle health is so crucial, especially through the menopause transition.

WRITTEN BY Dr Anna Ord, Menopause Doctor

Dr Anna is passionate about helping women with their perimenopause and menopause journey. She dedicates each Monday to assisting women at Drift Wellness Centre in Clarkson. You can find out more about Dr Anna and book in your appointment on her website www.drannaord.com

What is Art Therapy?

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Mental health, Wellness

Art Therapy is a therapeutic practice that utilizes the creative process of making art to improve mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. It’s founded on the idea that the visual language of art can access parts of our psyche that words sometimes cannot reach. Through creating and exploring art, individuals can express and process their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a nonverbal way.

​In an Art Therapy session, clients might use various mediums like drawing, painting, sculpting, or collage to explore their inner world. This process can help them gain insights, resolve conflicts, and cope with difficult emotions. The art created during therapy serves as a powerful tool for self-expression, allowing individuals to articulate complex or hidden aspects of themselves.​

Art Therapy is often used in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches and can be beneficial for people of all ages and backgrounds, including those dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. It can also be a way to foster personal growth and enhance overall life satisfaction by promoting self-discovery and personal insight.

​But I can’t draw! I’m not an artist!

​In Art Therapy, the emphasis is on the process rather than the product. It’s about exploring and expressing emotions and thoughts through art without the pressure to create a “perfect” or aesthetically pleasing piece. You have permission to “screw it up”. The beauty of art therapy lies in its freedom from conventional standards of artistic success.

​

​​“Stick figures are welcome in art therapy. It’s all about the process, not the end result”.

Here’s why Art Therapy is so effective:

​Non-Judgmental Space: Art therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can experiment with materials and techniques without the worry of making mistakes or producing a “bad” piece of art.

Accessing the Unconscious: Sometimes the most profound insights come from art that seems chaotic or nonsensical. The creative process can tap into subconscious thoughts and feelings that might be hard to articulate with words.

Metaphorical Exploration: Art can serve as a metaphor for personal experiences. Even abstract or “ugly” pieces can reveal valuable information about your inner world, offering new perspectives on challenges or emotions.

Personal Growth: Engaging in artmaking helps you connect with different parts of yourself and can lead to personal growth and self-discovery. The process itself can be therapeutic and revealing, regardless of the final product.

Accessibility: You don’t need to have any prior artistic experience or skills to benefit from art therapy. It’s about the experience of creating and reflecting, not about artistic talent or outcomes.​

In essence, art therapy is about the journey of self-expression and exploration. It’s an opportunity to delve into your inner life in a creative, non-verbal way, and sometimes the most meaningful discoveries come from the unexpected or unconventional.

written by Meaghan Hamilton, a qualified Transpersonal Art Therapist and Counsellor

Meaghan has a rich background in both the arts and psychology. She embodies the essence of being human, embracing love, vulnerability, and the complexities of life. Her journey toward healing began two decades ago during her time as a Constable in the Queensland Police Service, where she discovered her passion for supporting those in need. Following a life-changing diagnosis of complex PTSD in 2005, Meaghan turned to Art Therapy, which transformed her path and helped her reclaim her sense of self. Now, she dedicates her life to guiding others who feel lost or disconnected, using a holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual healing. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Arts and advanced diplomas in Transpersonal Art Therapy and Counselling, Meaghan employs both ancient and modern therapeutic modalities to empower her clients: adults, adolescents and children, helping them find their inner wisdom and fostering a journey of growth and transformation.

book your therapy session today

Meaghan is at Drift Wellness Centre every Friday and for more information please visit her website: www.meagsartthreapy.com.au