Menstrual Irregularities: When to Seek Traditional Chinese Medicine

Menstrual issues

Hello, I would like to ask about experiencing residual menstrual bleeding after my period for the past six months, although it doesn't occur every month.
Should I seek medical attention for this? If so, should I consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for herbal treatment? Additionally, because of the residual bleeding, I'm uncertain how to calculate my ovulation days (as I am planning to conceive).
The residual bleeding typically appears 1 to 2 days after my normal period ends, rather than immediately following it.
Should I start counting my ovulation days after my normal period ends, or should I wait until the residual bleeding has concluded?
Furthermore, I need to undergo an HSG (hysterosalpingography) to check for any potential fallopian tube blockages.
Given the residual bleeding, should I schedule the HSG after my normal period, or would it be better to wait? If I experience residual bleeding during the procedure, could it affect the results? Thank you for your guidance.

Emily, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/16

Dr. Zhang Weidong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello Emily,
What you referred to as "residual menstruation" is known in Traditional Chinese Medicine as "prolonged menstruation," which often occurs after periods of high stress or changes in lifestyle and dietary habits.
You can consult a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner nearby for treatment, or you can inform your gynecologist during your check-up.
Regarding ovulation, for women with regular cycles (calculated from the first day of menstruation to the first day of the next), ovulation occurs 14 days before the first day of the next cycle, not from the end of menstruation.
Additionally, a hysterosalpingography must be performed after menstruation has completely ended.
You can let your obstetrician handle any concerns you may have; there’s no need to worry about these issues.
I hope this answers your questions.
Wishing you good health and well-being.
Zhang Weidong, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2020/07/16

More Info

Menstrual irregularities can be a source of concern for many women, especially when they are trying to conceive. Your situation of experiencing residual bleeding (or "残经") after your menstrual period raises several important questions regarding when to seek treatment, how to calculate ovulation, and the timing of diagnostic tests like a hysterosalpingogram (HSG).
First, let's address the issue of residual bleeding. It is not uncommon for women to experience variations in their menstrual cycles, including residual bleeding after the main period. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, changes in weight, or underlying health conditions. If this residual bleeding occurs sporadically and is not accompanied by severe pain or other concerning symptoms, it may not be an immediate cause for alarm. However, if it becomes a regular occurrence or is accompanied by other symptoms such as significant pain, heavy bleeding, or unusual discharge, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider.

Regarding the use of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for regulating menstrual cycles, many women find it beneficial. TCM approaches menstrual irregularities by focusing on the balance of the body's energy (Qi), blood, and organ systems. Herbal remedies, acupuncture, and dietary adjustments may be recommended to help restore balance and regulate menstrual cycles. If you decide to pursue TCM, it is essential to consult a qualified practitioner who can tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs, taking into account your current symptoms and any other health conditions.

Now, concerning ovulation calculation, it is typically based on the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). However, if you experience residual bleeding, it can complicate this calculation. Generally, ovulation occurs about 14 days before the start of your next period. If your residual bleeding is light and does not last long, you might still consider the first day of your regular period as the starting point for calculating ovulation. However, if the residual bleeding is significant or prolonged, it may be more prudent to wait until it has fully resolved before calculating ovulation.

As for the timing of your HSG, it is usually recommended to perform this test after your menstrual period but before ovulation. This timing helps ensure that the uterus is clear of any menstrual blood, which could interfere with the results. If you have residual bleeding, it is advisable to wait until it has completely stopped before scheduling the HSG. If you are unsure about the timing, it is best to discuss this with your healthcare provider, who can provide specific guidance based on your situation.

In summary, while occasional residual bleeding may not be a cause for immediate concern, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if they persist or worsen. TCM can be a valuable option for regulating menstrual cycles, but it is crucial to work with a qualified practitioner. For ovulation calculation and scheduling diagnostic tests, consider the nature of your bleeding and consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Taking these steps can help you better understand your menstrual health and support your pregnancy planning efforts.

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