Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: My menstrual cycle is irregular. Sometimes it comes once a month, sometimes every two months, and sometimes every three months. I went to the hospital for a check-up, and the ultrasound was normal. The doctor prescribed Honglin Siwu Mixture and Progesterone Capsules for me. At first, they were effective, but after I finished the course, the irregularity returned. Should I continue taking these two medications now?Doctor's answer:
Irregular menstruation refers to a category of diseases characterized by abnormalities in the menstrual cycle, duration, and volume. It includes conditions such as early menstruation, delayed menstruation, irregular menstruation, prolonged menstruation, excessive menstrual flow, and insufficient menstrual flow. The etiology and pathogenesis of irregular menstruation are primarily caused by emotional distress (seven emotions), external pathogens (six evils), insufficient innate kidney qi, multiple pregnancies, excessive sexual labor, or overexertion, which damage the zang-fu organs, disrupt the functions of the kidneys, liver, and spleen, lead to imbalance in qi and blood, and ultimately injure the Chong and Ren meridians, resulting in irregular menstruation.Qi and blood deficiency type: Menstrual cycle may be advanced or delayed, menstrual volume may increase or decrease, menstruation may prolong, with pale color and thin, watery texture. It may also present with lower abdominal pain, dizziness or blurred vision, fatigue and weakness in limbs, pale or sallow complexion, poor appetite, and loose stools. The tongue appears pale-red with a thin, weak pulse. Treatment should focus on replenishing both qi and blood. Medications that can be used include Bu Zhong Yi Qi Wan (Strengthen the Middle and Replenish Qi), Shi Quan Da Bu Wan (Ten Herbs Tonifying Pill), Wu Ji Bai Feng Wan (Black Chicken White Phoenix Pill), Ba Zhen Yi Mu Wan (Eight Herbs Invigorating Menses), Ba Bao Kun Shun Wan (Eight-Jeweled Women’s Comfort Pill), Nu Jin Wan (Women’s Gold Pill), Dang Gui Diao Jing Wan (Angelica Sinensis Regulation Pill), Dang Gui Hong Zao Ke Li (Angelica Sinensis Jujube Granules), Gui Pi Wan (Spleen Invigorating Pill), and Si Wu He Ji (Four Ingredients Mixture).