Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: My menstrual cycle started later when I was 16 years old during my period, and it has been relatively short ever since. Initially, it was around 15 days, but after a year or two of stability, it became almost consistently 20 days. Additionally, the flow is quite heavy. There are no other abnormalities, and I have been checked, confirming that it is not abnormal bleeding. Is this normal?Is it better to adjust it to 25 days? What methods are available for this?
History of previous diagnoses and treatments, as well as their effectiveness: During this past summer vacation, I took Chinese medicine to regulate my cycle, and it was normal for that month, with a 30-day cycle. However, after that, it reverted to 20 days again.
Doctor's answer:
Hello: According to your condition, it is best to actively pursue treatment for menstrual regulation.Precautions:
1. Maintain a positive mood, avoid mental stress and emotional fluctuations. Some individuals may experience lower abdominal distension, back pain, breast tenderness, mild diarrhea, fatigue, drowsiness, emotional instability, irritability, or tendency to depression during their menstrual period, which are all normal and should not cause excessive concern.
2. Pay attention to hygiene to prevent infection. Keep the external genital area clean. Sexual intercourse is absolutely forbidden during the menstrual period. Pay attention to warmth and avoid cold exposure. Avoid overexertion. Those with heavy menstrual flow should avoid consuming brown sugar.
3. Underwear should be soft, made of cotton, and have good ventilation. Wash and change underwear frequently, and ensure that the washed underwear is dried in the sun.
4. Avoid eating cold, sour, spicy, or other stimulating foods. Drink plenty of warm water to maintain regular bowel movements. Individuals with blood heat should consume more fresh fruits and vegetables before their menstrual period and avoid foods that stimulate the "fire" (e.g., scallions, garlic, chives, ginger). Those with qi and blood deficiency should increase their nutritional intake regularly, such as milk, eggs, soy milk, pork liver, spinach, pork, chicken, and mutton, while avoiding cold fruits and vegetables.