MRI is an allopathic medical facility. We, however, also recognize the validity of many alternative treatments and fully support their use within the holistic framework of our practice.

Our Advisory Board was created out of the recognition that allopathic medicine, in many instances, has proven unsatisfactory in resolving common menopause problems. Especially the early symptomatology in the perimenopausal period is often not satisfactorily addressed by traditional allopathic treatment approaches. Recognizing this fact, the public has widely embraced alternative treatments, often of homeopathic nature, or of Far-Eastern naturopathic origins. Hollywood actress, Susan Sommer’s bestselling book on menopause, is reflective of this trend, when she, after lengthy research, amongst other recommendations, advocates the use of “natural” hormones for HRT.

While the staff of MRI recognizes the limitations of allopathic medicine in the area of menopause treatments, we are also cognizant of many shortcomings of alternative treatments that have been widely propagated. Indeed, many of these alternative treatments in principle lack research data that would support some of the claims that are widely made. One such example is the use of soy for the treatment of postmenopausal symptoms, which in a recent study was not confirmed as effective.

Absence of data does, however, not necessarily means that a compound is ineffective. It may just mean that it has not yet been properly investigated. In order to find the right balance between the traditional, allopathic and the alternative treatment community, we, therefore, have solicited the help and advice of a number of individuals who, based on their knowledge, can represent the non-traditional treatment community with authority. Under the Chairmanship of Leora Goldberg, B.A., a certified macrobiotic nutritionist, exercise physiologist and educator, certified Pilates instructor and life-long alternative medicine enthusiast, we have assembled a group of health care providers and patients who can help us in merging our own, obviously scientific, and allopathic, medical approach with valid alternative approaches.

Our ultimate goal is, however, of course, the science behind it all. By utilizing rigorously scientific methods of research and follow -up, we are confident in our ability to establish at MRI the appropriate combination of allopathic and alternative approaches that work and, ultimately, most benefit our patients in transitioning smoothly through the various phases of menopause. We very strongly believe that overlooking the wisdom of so many generations, reflected in many of the alternative treatments, would be short sighted. If this knowledge of generations can contribute to the well being of the menopausal woman, we ought to know!