I used to get the worst periods – heavy flow, horrific cramps (the ones that make you cry, vomit, and have the runs – all at the same time), and where I could only function with a painkiller if I took it at just the right the time.

No one could tell me why my periods were so painful. The only solution my family doctor had was for me to go on the pill. Even in my early teens, I knew I didn’t want to go on the pill and that it wasn’t a real solution. So I suffered, for years! And guess what, no one told me that my hormones affect more than just my cycle, or that my cycle is impacted by many different factors!

While in my second year of university, I took a job as a medical receptionist in a clinic and that is when I discovered naturopathic medicine. I learned so much. What really drew me to naturopathic medicine were its principles of addressing the root cause and supporting the body in its natural ability to heal itself.

I also appreciated the fact that naturopathic doctors also take on the role of health educators – helping patients truly understand their own bodies, allowing them to take control of their own health.