Does Gallbladder and Liver Scraping Affect Your Menstrual Cycle? - Traditional Chinese Medicine

Share to:

Does tapping the gallbladder meridian or scraping the liver meridian affect menstruation?


Hello Doctor: My menstrual period has consistently started around the 25th of each month.
This year, around May 20th, I began trying techniques such as tapping the gallbladder meridian and scraping the liver meridian to slim my thighs.
I would stop these practices if I had bruises or during my menstrual period, and then resume once the bruises healed or my period ended.
Yesterday, on June 10th, I experienced sensations similar to the onset of my period, but the discharge was not red like menstrual blood; instead, it was brown.
Could this be related to the gallbladder tapping and liver scraping? If so, does this mean that my body is not suited for these practices?

Wanzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/06/11

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine


Dear Wanzi,
I am glad to receive your letter.
You mentioned experiencing a discharge similar to menstruation after performing gallbladder tapping and liver scraping.
Based on your description, it is difficult to determine whether this is caused by the gallbladder tapping and liver scraping, as there may be other unobserved factors involved.
However, I recommend that you stop these practices for now and see if the phenomenon occurs again.
If it does not reappear, it may indicate that the gallbladder tapping and liver scraping were the cause.
This is my response to you.
I hope you find it satisfactory.
Wishing you peace and well-being!
Sincerely,
Yen Su-Mei
Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2015/06/11

More Info


The relationship between gallbladder and liver scraping (often referred to as "gallbladder meridian tapping" or "liver meridian scraping") and menstrual cycles is not well-documented in scientific literature. However, there are several factors to consider regarding how these practices may influence your menstrual cycle and overall health.

Firstly, it's important to understand that the menstrual cycle is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones, primarily estrogen and progesterone, which are produced by the ovaries. Any significant changes in your body, including stress, diet, exercise, and even alternative therapies, can potentially affect hormone levels and, consequently, your menstrual cycle.
In your case, the introduction of gallbladder and liver scraping practices may have introduced physical stress to your body. While these practices are often touted for their detoxifying effects, they can also lead to temporary changes in bodily functions, including the menstrual cycle. The appearance of brown discharge instead of the usual menstrual flow could indicate several things:
1. Hormonal Fluctuations: The stress or physical manipulation of the body may have caused a temporary imbalance in your hormones, leading to changes in your menstrual flow. Brown discharge often indicates older blood that has taken longer to exit the uterus, which can happen if the menstrual flow is lighter than usual.

2. Physical Stress: Engaging in practices like scraping can be physically taxing. If your body perceives this as stress, it may alter your menstrual cycle. Stress can lead to delayed ovulation or changes in the menstrual cycle, resulting in atypical bleeding patterns.

3. Body's Response to Treatment: If your body is not accustomed to these practices, it may react in unexpected ways. Some individuals may experience changes in their menstrual cycle when they start new physical therapies or treatments, especially if they are intense or invasive.

4. Underlying Health Conditions: If you have any underlying health issues, such as hormonal imbalances or conditions affecting your reproductive system, these practices might exacerbate those issues, leading to changes in your menstrual cycle.

Given that you have experienced a change in your menstrual cycle after starting these practices, it may be wise to consider the following steps:
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of your menstrual cycle, noting any changes in flow, color, and consistency. This information can be helpful for healthcare providers if you seek further evaluation.

- Consult a Healthcare Professional: If the changes in your menstrual cycle persist or if you experience any discomfort, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a more thorough evaluation and determine if any underlying issues need to be addressed.

- Evaluate Your Practices: Consider whether the gallbladder and liver scraping practices are beneficial for you. If you notice consistent negative effects, it may be worth discontinuing them or seeking alternative methods for achieving your health goals.

In summary, while gallbladder and liver scraping may not directly cause changes in your menstrual cycle, they can contribute to physical stress and hormonal fluctuations that may lead to atypical menstrual symptoms. It's essential to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your menstrual health or the effects of these practices.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Pregnancy Chances and Menstrual Changes: Key Insights

Hello Doctor: My last menstrual period was from April 21 to April 25. I had unprotected intercourse from May 20 to May 22. Since June 5 until today (June 8), I have been experiencing lower abdominal discomfort and light bleeding, but it's only a small amount (a few drops), a...


Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the factors that can affect the menstrual cycle or cause bleeding outside of menstruation are numerous, including age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, emergency contraceptive pills, diet, polycystic ovary syndrome, uterin...

[Read More] Understanding Pregnancy Chances and Menstrual Changes: Key Insights


Understanding Digestive Issues During Menstruation and Stomach Pain

Hello Dr. Tsai, I have a few questions to ask you. 1. Recently, during my menstrual period, I feel like my digestion is very fast, and my stomach makes gurgling noises, sometimes accompanied by pain. I heard that it is normal for the gastrointestinal tract to move too quickly d...


Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Each woman experiences gastrointestinal discomfort during her menstrual period differently. It is advisable to observe for a few more cycles; if the discomfort occurs consistently, it can be considered normal. However, if the symptoms worsen, it is recommended to consul...

[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues During Menstruation and Stomach Pain


Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles and Abnormal Bleeding Issues

Hello, Doctor. I gave birth on March 21, 2017, and I have been experiencing abdominal pain and lower back pain 3-4 days before my menstrual period. My menstrual cycle is irregular, ranging from 30 to 45 days, and each period lasts 7-8 days. In the first 1-5 days of my period, the...


Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
On March 21, 2017, I experienced abdominal pain and lower back discomfort 3-4 days before my menstrual period. My menstrual cycle has been irregular, ranging from 30 to 45 days, with each period lasting 7-8 days. For the first 1-5 days of menstruation, I change my pad 3-4 times a...

[Read More] Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles and Abnormal Bleeding Issues


Understanding Menstrual Irregularities and Their Impact on Fertility

I would like to ask about my menstrual cycle, which has always been regular, but this time it is a week late. Before this, I experienced nausea, severe breast tenderness, and abdominal pain. On the first day of my period, I also felt nauseous, and the bleeding was very heavy with...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, experiencing nausea and pain during menstruation can be considered normal and is not related to infertility. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Understanding Menstrual Irregularities and Their Impact on Fertility


Related FAQ

Menstruation

(Traditional Chinese Medicine)

Menopausal Disorders

(Traditional Chinese Medicine)

Uterine Fibroids

(Traditional Chinese Medicine)

Gastrointestinal Discomfort

(Traditional Chinese Medicine)

Acid Reflux

(Traditional Chinese Medicine)

Liver Tumor

(Traditional Chinese Medicine)

During Pregnancy

(Traditional Chinese Medicine)

Sexual Dysfunction

(Traditional Chinese Medicine)

Fibrocystic Breast Changes

(Traditional Chinese Medicine)

Frequent Urination

(Traditional Chinese Medicine)