Reframing Menopause: An Integrative Approach to Hormone Therapy and Chinese Medicine at BIÂN
Menopause marks a powerful transition in a woman’s life—physically, emotionally, and energetically. Yet for many, the journey can feel disorienting, especially when met with symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, disrupted sleep, anxiety, and brain fog. At BIÂN, we believe this life stage deserves more than symptom management. It deserves holistic support rooted in both modern medical science and ancient healing traditions.
The Role of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Dr. Denise Au, Concierge Medicine Physician at BIÂN, often works with women seeking relief from the more immediate and disruptive symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. “Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be a highly effective tool for many women,” she explains. “Not only does it address common symptoms like night sweats, insomnia, and mood instability, but studies also show that HRT can reduce the long-term risk of heart disease, stroke, urinary tract infections, bone fractures, diabetes, colon cancer, and overall mortality.”
There are a wide range of HRT options available—including oral, transdermal, transvaginal, and topical applications—each with their own considerations. The choice of treatment is personal and should take into account your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. “Our goal is to co-create a treatment plan that fits the individual,” says Dr. Au. “We take time to understand each woman’s needs and preferences before offering guidance.”
A Complementary Path Through Chinese Medicine
Not every woman is a candidate for HRT—or wants to pursue it. That’s where the BIÂN philosophy of integrative care shines. Sandra Subotich, BIÂN’s Director of Eastern Medicine, offers a complementary perspective rooted in Chinese Medicine. “We see menopause not as a condition to be treated, but as a natural evolution,” she shares. “It’s a time to nourish vitality, restore internal balance, and align with a new rhythm in life. Chinese Medicine gives us tools to do just that, whether or not someone is using HRT.”
At BIÂN, these tools include acupuncture, customized herbal medicine, dietary guidance, and lifestyle practices. Acupuncture helps regulate the nervous system, reduce internal heat, and support emotional clarity. Herbal formulas are crafted specifically for each woman, helping ease fatigue, stabilize mood, and reduce symptoms like hot flashes and low libido. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all model,” Subotich notes. “We design protocols based on each woman’s constitution, symptoms, and whether or not she’s using hormone therapy.”
Supporting the Body—With or Without HRT
Importantly, Chinese Medicine also works in harmony with Western approaches like HRT. “Even with external hormones,” Subotich says, “the body often needs support in circulation, digestion, and emotional regulation. Acupuncture and herbs can help reduce side effects and improve how the body processes those hormones. It’s about helping women feel more integrated and grounded through the transition.”
For those who prefer not to use HRT, Chinese Medicine also serves as a standalone approach. From alleviating hot flashes, anxiety, and fatigue to restoring sleep and libido, this holistic system helps regulate temperature, calm the nervous system, and nourish the body’s vital energy.
Dr. Au emphasizes that both approaches can be powerful: “Menopause is not just a hormonal event—it’s physical, mental, and emotional. That’s why we work together across disciplines at BIÂN. Whether a woman wants hormone therapy, Chinese Medicine, or a blend of both, we’re here to guide her with care and expertise.”
Personalized, Integrative Care at BIÂN
At BIÂN, we believe that menopause doesn’t have to be something you just get through—it can be something you grow through. Our integrative approach honors the complexity of this phase while empowering each woman to navigate it with confidence, clarity, and support.
If you’re navigating perimenopause or menopause and want to explore your options, we invite you to inquire with our team and schedule a complimentary consultation to discover a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals, your body, and your life.
Dr. Denise Au, MD
Dr. Denise K. Au is a Concierge Medical Physician at BIÂN with over 20 years of experience in internal medicine. She previously served as an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, where she earned multiple teaching awards for her work with students and residents. At BIÂN, Dr. Au specializes in preventive care, women’s health, weight management, and lifestyle-focused medicine that aligns with BIÂN’s holistic philosophy.
Dr. Sandra Subotich, DAOM, LAc, MTCM, Dipl. OM
Dr. Sandra Subotich is the Director of Eastern Medicine at BIÂN and a nationally certified Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. With advanced training in integrative women’s health, Sandra brings a personalized, evidence-informed approach to Chinese Medicine that blends ancient wisdom with modern insights. She specializes in hormonal balance, emotional wellness, and energetic resilience through acupuncture, herbal therapy, and nutritional support.