Women’s Health

Women experience unique health concerns, physical transitions, and milestones that can affect their overall health and well-being. At Origin Medicine in Tacoma, Washington, integrative medicine specialist Michelle Sandwisch, ARNP, FNP-C, takes a functional approach to women’s health care that highlights comprehensive diagnostic tools and natural remedies. Call or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What does women’s health mean, and why is it important?

Women's health is the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of women throughout their lives. It focuses on addressing conditions and concerns that are more common in women and promotes optimal health and quality of life. Women's health also recognizes the unique experiences and needs of women, like reproductive health, pregnancy, and menopause.

Which health problems primarily affect women?

Many health problems affect women, including:

Hormonal imbalance

Hormonal imbalances can occur in women, leading to irregular menstrual cycles, mood swings, weight changes, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Along with hormonal changes during menopause and pregnancy, women are more likely than men to develop thyroid disorders.

Menopause

Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life when menstruation stops, often accompanied by symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and changes in mood.

Anxiety

Women are more likely than men to experience anxiety disorders, which can cause excessive worry, fear, and physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or difficulty breathing.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a progressive condition causing decreased bone density, making women more susceptible to fractures, particularly after menopause.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects women, leading to joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness.

How can functional medicine improve women’s health?

At Origin Medicine, Michelle uses a six-step plan to assess your specific needs. The plan includes gathering information through the LivingMatrix™ online assessment tool, scheduling a 1-2 hour consultation, ordering lab work, reviewing your plan, monitoring your progress, and maintaining your results. 

Depending on your unique needs, Michelle may include the following in your personalized women’s health plan:

• ProLon® Fasting Mimicking Diet for sustainable weight loss
• Hormone therapy
• Prescription medications
• Metagenics UltraFlora® supplements for vaginal and sexual health
• Pure Encapsulations® hypoallergenic, research-based supplements
• Nutritional counseling
• Lifestyle counseling
• Exercise support
• Stress reduction techniques
• Brain health supplements for menopause-related brain fog

Origin Medicine also offers PureGenomics® genetic testing to identify genetic risk factors that may contribute to women’s health concerns. 

Michelle collaborates with you throughout the process, monitoring your progress, adjusting the plan as needed, and ensuring that you receive the comprehensive care and support necessary to optimize your overall health and well-being. Call Origin Medicine today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.