Menstrual Irregularities: Traditional Chinese Medicine Insights

Q: Menstrual Irregularities: Traditional Chinese Medicine Insights

Dear Joyce, 28 years old, female netizen： Hello, 1. Treatment can adopt a combination of traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine to improve the condition. 2. There has been abnormal bleeding, with a very small amount of brown discharge, but there wer

Menstrual irregularities

Hello: Since this year, my menstrual flow has decreased compared to before (about 2 pads per day), but my cycle is still regular.
However, after June, it suddenly changed to once every two months (June, August, October).
After my period at the end of August, I visited a traditional Chinese medicine doctor who said I have insufficient qi and blood, and a cold uterus.
I started taking medicine, and my period didn't come until October, and the flow was still low, but the issue of insufficient qi and blood has improved significantly.
My period in November was normal, and the flow finally returned to normal, but the menstrual blood was very dark, and there were many blood clots.
It ended completely in 5 days (previously it would last 6-8 days).
However, on the third day after it ended, I experienced abnormal bleeding, with a very small amount of brown discharge, but there were a few drops of fresh blood for about an hour, and it continued for 3 days before stopping.
Concerned about potential issues, I went to a gynecologist after it ended.
The doctor performed an ultrasound and said there were no issues with my uterus or ovaries, and prescribed me medication to induce menstruation, stating that my period should come in about 3-4 days.
This essentially means starting over, and I was advised to observe whether my next two periods are normal after this.
I have already stopped taking the Chinese medicine because today is the first day of my period, and the flow is even less than before, with very dark blood.
I'm wondering if I should follow the doctor's advice and observe for another two months? What should I do if these two months are also abnormal? Should I consult a gynecologist or a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner? Could you please provide some advice? I'm worried that if this continues for too long, it may affect the timing of treatment or improvement.
Thank you.

joyce, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/01

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Joyce, 28 years old, female netizen: Hello,
1.
Treatment can adopt a combination of traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine to improve the condition.

2.
There has been abnormal bleeding, with a very small amount of brown discharge, but there were a few drops of fresh blood for about an hour in between, and the bleeding lasted for three days before stopping.
The menstrual flow is less than before and the color is darker, which may indicate retained menstrual blood and unresolved blood stasis.
Traditional Chinese medicine can be used to invigorate blood circulation and resolve stasis to regulate menstruation.

3.
I visited a gynecologist, and the doctor performed an ultrasound, stating that there are no issues with the uterus or ovaries.
Therefore, there is no need to worry; it may be functional menstrual irregularity.
Possible causes could include mental stress, irregular daily routines, or excessive consumption of cold foods, which may lead to cold in the uterus.
You can seek treatment from a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner who can diagnose and treat based on the principles of "deficiency, excess, cold, and heat" to improve your menstrual cycle and provide treatment.

Wishing you well,
Dr.
Lin Ching-Chung, Director of the Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Feng Yuan Hospital, Associate Professor at the General Education Center, Chung Tai University of Technology.

Reply Date: 2015/12/01

More Info

Understanding menstrual irregularities can be complex, especially when considering the insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) alongside Western medical practices. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced a range of menstrual issues, including reduced flow, irregular cycles, and abnormal bleeding. Let's break down your situation and explore the potential TCM perspectives and recommendations.

Firstly, your initial symptoms of decreased menstrual flow and irregular cycles could be indicative of underlying conditions such as "Qi and Blood deficiency" and "Cold in the Uterus," which are concepts in TCM. TCM views the menstrual cycle as a reflection of the body's overall health, particularly the balance of Qi (energy) and Blood. When there is a deficiency, it can lead to lighter periods or irregular cycles. The TCM practitioner you consulted identified these issues and prescribed herbal remedies to help restore balance, which seems to have had a positive effect initially.

However, the subsequent changes in your menstrual cycle, including dark blood and the presence of clots, suggest that there may still be underlying imbalances. In TCM, dark blood can indicate stagnation or a deficiency of Yang energy, which may lead to blood not flowing smoothly. The appearance of abnormal bleeding after your period could also be a sign of residual stagnation or a need for further treatment to regulate your cycle.

Regarding your current situation, it's essential to consider both TCM and Western medical perspectives. The fact that your gynecologist performed an ultrasound and found no issues with your uterus and ovaries is reassuring. However, the prescription of medication to induce menstruation indicates that your doctor is taking your symptoms seriously and wants to ensure your menstrual cycle returns to normal.

As for your question about whether to continue observing your cycle for the next two months or seek further treatment, it may be beneficial to follow your gynecologist's advice initially. Monitoring your menstrual cycle after taking the medication will provide valuable information about your body's response. If you notice persistent irregularities or if your symptoms worsen, it would be wise to consult with your gynecologist again.

In parallel, you might consider re-engaging with a TCM practitioner, especially if you feel that the herbal treatments previously helped you. TCM can offer a holistic approach to your health, focusing on restoring balance and addressing any deficiencies or stagnation. It’s crucial to communicate openly with both your TCM practitioner and your gynecologist about any treatments you are receiving to avoid potential interactions and ensure a coordinated approach to your care.

In summary, it is advisable to follow your gynecologist's recommendations for the next couple of months while keeping an open line of communication with your TCM practitioner. If your menstrual irregularities persist or worsen, you can explore further treatment options with both practitioners. This integrative approach may provide you with the best chance of restoring your menstrual health and overall well-being. Remember, your health is a priority, and seeking help from both Western and traditional medicine can be a beneficial strategy.

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