Effective Remedies for Heavy Menstrual Flow in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Could you please provide more context or specify the topic you are referring to?

Hello Doctor, I have a question: If there are no underlying health conditions, but I experience menstrual cramps every time and have very heavy flow from the first to the third day, needing to change my pad every hour, what can I take to effectively improve this heavy flow issue? It is quite distressing.
Thank you.

a, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/04/12

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear A,
I am glad to receive your letter! Regarding the issue of heavy menstrual bleeding: it is normal to change sanitary pads approximately every hour when experiencing heavy flow.
If you find that even overnight pads cannot last for an hour, then the bleeding may be excessive.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as dizziness or anemia, it is important to see a gynecologist as soon as possible.
You asked about what to eat when experiencing heavy flow.
Unfortunately, I cannot provide specific dietary recommendations, but I can suggest what to avoid.
Foods and beverages that are highly stimulating, such as coffee, tea, and alcohol, can increase blood flow and should be limited during this time.
Additionally, fried and high-fat foods can generate heat in the body and should also be minimized.
Traditional Chinese medicine herbs like safflower, peach kernel, and red peony, which promote blood circulation, should be avoided during menstruation.
What should you eat during your period? It is important to keep warm and avoid cold foods, including salads, watermelon, and ice-cold items, as they can cause blood vessel constriction in the abdominal cavity, leading to insufficient blood flow or exacerbating pain.
Eating chocolate can be beneficial, as it releases endorphins that improve mood, and each gram of chocolate contains 1 milligram of magnesium, which helps regulate appetite, stabilize mood, and assist in the modulation of estrogen levels.
Consuming red bean soup is also helpful, as red beans are rich in iron, which aids in the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells.
Additionally, during menstrual cramps, applying a hot water bottle or heating pad to the lower abdomen can promote blood circulation, relax the muscles, and alleviate pain.
This is my response to you, and I hope you find it satisfactory.
Wishing you health and happiness! May everything go smoothly for you!
Sincerely,
Yen Su-Mei
Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2011/04/12

More Info

Heavy menstrual flow, also known as menorrhagia, can be a distressing condition for many women. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the approach to treating heavy menstrual flow often involves a holistic understanding of the body's balance, particularly the interplay of Qi (energy), blood, and the organs involved in menstruation, such as the liver, spleen, and kidneys.

In TCM, heavy menstrual flow can be attributed to several patterns, including Qi deficiency, blood heat, or blood stasis. Each of these patterns requires a different treatment strategy:
1. Qi Deficiency: This pattern is characterized by fatigue, weakness, and a pale complexion. The treatment focuses on tonifying Qi and nourishing blood. Herbal formulas such as Ren Shen (Ginseng), Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis), and Bai Zhu (Atractylodes) may be recommended. Acupuncture points like Ren 6 (Qihai) and Spleen 6 (Sanyinjiao) can also be stimulated to enhance energy and blood flow.

2. Blood Heat: This pattern may present with symptoms such as a feeling of heat, irritability, and a bright red menstrual flow. The treatment aims to clear heat and cool the blood. Herbs such as Huang Qin (Scutellaria), Mu Dan Pi (Moutan Cortex), and Dan Shen (Salvia) can be beneficial. Acupuncture points like Liver 2 (Xingjian) and Spleen 10 (Xuehai) are often used to help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce excessive bleeding.

3. Blood Stasis: This pattern is often associated with sharp pain and clots in the menstrual flow. The treatment focuses on moving blood and resolving stasis. Formulas like Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang (Blood Mansion Drive Out Stasis Decoction) may be used, along with acupuncture points such as Stomach 29 (Guilai) and Ren 3 (Zhongji) to promote circulation and alleviate pain.

In addition to herbal remedies, lifestyle modifications can also play a crucial role in managing heavy menstrual flow. Maintaining a balanced diet that includes warm, nourishing foods can help support the spleen and improve blood production. Foods rich in iron, such as leafy greens, red meat, and legumes, can also be beneficial, especially if there is a concern about anemia due to heavy bleeding.

Moreover, stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or tai chi can help regulate the menstrual cycle by promoting relaxation and balance within the body. Regular exercise is also important, but it should be moderate, as excessive physical strain can exacerbate symptoms.

If you are experiencing heavy menstrual flow, it is essential to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner who can provide a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan. They may also recommend lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments tailored to your specific needs.

In conclusion, Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a variety of effective remedies for managing heavy menstrual flow. By addressing the underlying patterns of disharmony within the body, TCM can help restore balance and improve overall menstrual health. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Similar Q&A

Herbal Remedies for Irregular Menstruation: Traditional Chinese Medicine Insights

Could you please tell me if there are any traditional Chinese medicines that can help with menstruation (to promote a clean discharge)? I have a thicker than normal uterine lining and experience abnormal menstrual bleeding, but my tests (blood and urine) have come back normal.

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Abnormal bleeding that occurs intermittently between menstrual periods and does not resolve promptly may require the use of hemostatic medications to help it conclude, while also considering the individual's constitution of cold, heat, deficiency, and excess. If the bleeding...

Should You Stop Taking Traditional Chinese Medicine for Menstrual Issues?

Your friend experienced a decrease in menstrual flow and a darker color after taking the prescribed Chinese herbal formulas (Zuo Gui Wan, Gui Pi Tang, Wen Jing Tang, and Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang) for three days. This change in menstrual pattern can be concerning, and it's importa...

Dr. Wang Ruomei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Hello, sir: I was a bit surprised to see the prescription given by that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) doctor to your friend. This is because TCM diagnoses illnesses through the four diagnostic methods: observation, listening and smelling, inquiry, and palpation. Regardless o...

Managing Irregular Menstruation and Reduced Flow: Traditional Chinese Medicine Insights

Hello, doctor. Last year, I visited a gynecologist to adjust my menstrual cycle and reduce menstrual pain in preparation for an exam. The doctor prescribed me a medication called "Yueji," which I took for almost a year. During that time, my condition was good, and I did...

Dr. Zhang Chunfang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Menstrual flow is smooth, with a cycle length of 28 to 35 days, lasting 5 to 7 days, and no discomfort during menstruation. Your symptoms are within the normal range and can be managed with traditional Chinese medicine. If further examination is needed, a visit to a Western medic...

Managing Severe Menstrual Pain: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine

Since I was young, my menstrual periods have been extremely painful, causing vomiting, diarrhea, cold sweats, and dizziness, to the point where I feel like I want to die. I often can't do anything and sometimes the pain is so severe that I can't sleep. This February, I ...

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear Netizen Matcha: How to manage menstrual pain effectively. My suggestion is: in addition to seeking help from both traditional Chinese and Western medicine practitioners, refrain from consuming any cold foods, such as cold fruits, cold beverages, cold salads, and cold jelly, ...