Menstrual Issues: Blood Clots, Color, and Herbal Remedies

Q: Menstrual Issues: Blood Clots, Color, and Herbal Remedies

Hello, Miss Huang： <br>Menstruation in women is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which secretes luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to stimulate the ovaries and uterus to produce estrogen and progesterone. <br>Most of the estrogen

Menstrual issues in women?

Hello: Is it normal for girls to have blood clots in their menstrual period? What is considered a normal menstrual cycle, and what should the color be like? After taking traditional Chinese medicine, the menstrual blood that originally had clots has turned bright red; is this normal? Could the blood clots get stuck inside? Menstrual cramps are present; what traditional Chinese medicine should be used for regulation? Thank you.

Ms. Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/07/21

Dr. Wang Ruomei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello, Miss Huang:
Menstruation in women is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which secretes luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to stimulate the ovaries and uterus to produce estrogen and progesterone.
Most of the estrogen promotes ovulation in the ovaries, while progesterone primarily thickens the uterine lining.
When a mature egg is not fertilized, the thickened uterine lining sheds, resulting in menstruation.
Therefore, menstruation is related to hormones rather than blood.
The sources of estrogen and progesterone are dietary, so after menstruation, it is advisable to consume nutritious foods to replenish these hormones.

Menstruation occurs due to the shedding of the thickened uterine lining, which may sometimes result in blood clots.
Generally, as long as the flow is relatively smooth, it is not considered problematic.
The menstrual cycle should be compared to one's own previous cycles, and a variation of up to 7 days earlier or later is typically normal.
Regarding color, both red and dark red are generally considered normal.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), menstrual issues are often assessed based on symptoms such as dysmenorrhea, whether the cycle is significantly early or late, bowel movements before, during, and after menstruation, headaches, and the nature of the menstrual flow.
Dysmenorrhea can be categorized into heat and cold patterns, which should be diagnosed by a TCM practitioner for appropriate treatment over 1-3 cycles, followed by attention to daily living and dietary habits.

Lastly, it is important to note that since menstruation is hormone-related, it is incorrect to follow common misconceptions such as consuming "Four Substance Decoction" to replenish blood after menstruation or taking "Shenghua Decoction" during menstruation to promote smooth flow.
These are outdated and incorrect beliefs.
If there are menstrual issues, it is essential to consult a TCM practitioner to accurately diagnose the underlying problems.

Best regards,
Dr.
Wang Ruomei

Reply Date: 2006/07/21

More Info

Menstrual issues, including the presence of blood clots, color variations, and associated symptoms, can be a source of concern for many women. Understanding what is considered normal and when to seek medical advice is crucial for maintaining reproductive health.

Firstly, the presence of blood clots in menstrual blood is relatively common and can be considered normal, especially during heavier flow days. These clots are typically small and can vary in size. They are formed when the body sheds the uterine lining, and the blood may coagulate as it exits the body. However, if the clots are large (larger than a quarter) or if there is a significant increase in the number of clots, it may indicate an underlying issue, such as hormonal imbalances, fibroids, or other conditions that warrant further investigation.

Regarding the color of menstrual blood, it can vary throughout the cycle. Fresh menstrual blood is usually bright red, indicating a recent flow, while older blood may appear darker, ranging from brown to dark red. The change in color can be influenced by the duration of the menstrual flow and the rate at which blood exits the body. If you notice a sudden change in color or consistency, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.

The use of herbal remedies to manage menstrual symptoms is common in many cultures. If you have taken herbal medicine and noticed a change in your menstrual blood from having clots to a brighter red color, this could be a result of the herbs affecting your menstrual flow or the viscosity of your blood. Some herbs are known to promote blood circulation and may help in reducing clot formation. However, it is essential to approach herbal remedies with caution, as they can interact with other medications and may not be suitable for everyone.

As for the concern about blood clots getting "stuck," it is generally unlikely for clots to remain trapped within the uterus. The body has mechanisms to expel menstrual blood and tissue effectively. However, if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or any unusual symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Menstrual pain, or dysmenorrhea, is another common issue. Herbal remedies such as ginger, chamomile, and raspberry leaf tea are often recommended for alleviating menstrual cramps. Additionally, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can be effective. If menstrual pain is severe or persistent, it may indicate conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids, and a healthcare provider should evaluate it.

In summary, while the presence of blood clots and variations in menstrual blood color can be normal, significant changes or associated symptoms like severe pain should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. It is also essential to approach herbal remedies with caution and to discuss any changes in your menstrual cycle with a qualified healthcare professional to ensure that you receive appropriate care and guidance.

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