The Bradford Women's+Group hosted was host to naturopath, Dr. Danielle Watson last night at the library for a chat about women’s menstrual health.
Dr. Watson discussed the four phases women go through during their menstruation cycle including: menstruation phase, follicular phase, ovulation phase and luteal phase.
She compared each one to a different season and moon cycle and touched upon the common feelings and symptoms that are present themselves during each phase.
Her powerpoint presentation highlighted important information about menstruation: how much blood is normal to shed in one cycle, how long each cycle should last and an overview of a woman’s anatomy.
She talked about common myths surrounding women’s cycles, like pain during periods and advocating for more women to speak up about issues, because “common does not always mean normal.”
There were notes on how to ‘honour your cycle’ at different times of the month, and switching up routines and diet depending on what phase of the cycle women are in.
“I think this is such an important topic,” said one of the women at the event, Pamela Arrowsmith. “I feel like it’s taboo.”
“The knowledge is more forthcoming now,” said another member of the audience, Stephanie Holmes. “I wish I could bring my 16-year-old here.”
The event was free to ladies 18+, but the women of Women’s+ said they are looking at creating a similar mother-daughter type event in the future.
As a naturopathic doctor, Dr. Watson’s main focus is on women’s health, focusing on fertility, menopause, hormonal issues and mental health. She practices out of both Bradford and Keswick.
"I loved being able to present at the session to such a great group of women," said Watson.
"I believe everyone left having learnt something new about their bodies. I think it is so important for women to feel empowered about their bodies & their cycles. If women are empowered with that knowledge, we can reduce the stigma around speaking about women’s health issues. I want women to feel equipped to understand and love themselves."
To learn more about Dr. Watson and her services, check out her website here. And to find out about the next Women's+ Group event, check their Facebook page here.
