Persistent Menstrual Irregularities: Should I Switch from TCM to Western Medicine?

Traditional Chinese medicine has not yet improved the condition?

I started my period in sixth grade, and during seventh grade, it was delayed by more than a week.
Since then, my cycle has often been irregular, coming either a week late or early.
In high school, I experienced two consecutive months without a period and took Western medicine for three months to improve the situation.
After that, my cycle was still not very regular; I was extremely busy in the first half of the year and even went three months without a period.
Recently, I have been seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and have been taking herbal medicine for over two months.
Although my cycle has normalized, I have noticed that the hair on my face and body is growing faster, with no improvement.
I'm unsure if I should switch to Western medicine.
There is also a family history of related conditions, which I believe may be genetic.
Should I go directly to a gynecologist or get blood tests for endocrine evaluation?

Meimei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/26

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

If you have irregular menstruation accompanied by excessive hair growth, you may visit a clinic to check for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Reply Date: 2016/05/26

More Info

When it comes to persistent menstrual irregularities, the decision to switch from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to Western medicine can be complex and should be based on several factors, including the severity of your symptoms, your personal health history, and your response to current treatments.

From your description, it appears that you have experienced significant menstrual irregularities since your first period, including delays and missed cycles. While TCM has its merits, especially in addressing hormonal imbalances and promoting overall well-being, it may not always provide the immediate results you seek, particularly if you are experiencing symptoms like excessive hair growth (hirsutism) that are not improving with herbal treatments.

Given that you have a family history of related conditions, it is prudent to consider a comprehensive evaluation. Here are some steps you might want to take:
1. Consult a Gynecologist: A gynecologist can provide a thorough examination and discuss your menstrual history in detail. They can help determine if there are any underlying conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or other hormonal imbalances that could be contributing to your symptoms.

2. Endocrine Evaluation: Since you mentioned concerns about hair growth and irregular cycles, it would be wise to have blood tests to check hormone levels. This could include tests for testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones. An endocrine evaluation can help identify any hormonal imbalances that may be affecting your menstrual cycle.

3. Consider Western Treatment Options: If your menstrual irregularities are linked to a specific condition like PCOS, Western medicine offers various treatment options, including hormonal contraceptives, anti-androgens, or other medications that can help regulate your cycle and manage symptoms like hirsutism. These treatments can often provide quicker results compared to herbal remedies.

4. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of your menstrual cycle, any associated symptoms, and how you respond to any treatments you are currently undergoing. This information will be valuable for any healthcare provider you consult.

5. Evaluate Your Current TCM Treatment: If you feel that TCM is not addressing your symptoms effectively, it may be worth discussing this with your TCM practitioner. They may be able to adjust your treatment plan or suggest alternative therapies that could be more effective.

6. Lifestyle Factors: Consider lifestyle modifications that can support hormonal balance, such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques. These can complement any medical treatments you pursue.

In summary, while TCM can be beneficial for some individuals, your persistent symptoms and family history suggest that a more comprehensive evaluation through Western medicine may be warranted. Consulting with a gynecologist and possibly an endocrinologist will provide you with a clearer understanding of your condition and the best treatment options available. Remember, it’s essential to advocate for your health and seek the care that aligns with your needs and preferences.

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