Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: My menstrual cycle has always been irregular. Usually, it is delayed by three to one week, and I also experience menstrual cramps. I can't remember the exact timing, but this time it seems like it's been a long time since my last period. In the past few days, I feel like it's coming, but it hasn't arrived yet. There is only a little bit of red, like a stain, but it's very minimal, similar in amount to leukorrhea. What could be the reason for this?Doctor's answer:
Hello, it is recommended to do a hormone test 3 days after the menstrual period ends to help with diagnosis.Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that menstrual pain is often caused by poor blood and qi circulation or qi and blood deficiency. Clinically, common symptoms include qi stagnation and blood stasis, cold congelation in the uterus, qi and blood deficiency, and damp-heat accumulation in the lower abdomen. Dietary therapy can play a good role in prevention and treatment.
For menstrual pain patients, it is advisable to follow a light and easily digestible diet 3-5 days before the onset of menstruation. They should consume easily digestible foods and avoid overeating. It is particularly important to avoid cold foods, as they can stimulate uterine and fallopian tube contractions, thereby inducing or worsening menstrual pain. Once menstruation has started, it is even more important to avoid all cold, difficult-to-digest, and irritating foods, such as chili peppers, raw scallions, raw garlic, pepper, and strong alcohol. During this period, patients can eat some sour foods, such as pickled vegetables and vinegar, as sour foods can help alleviate pain. Additionally, menstrual pain patients should maintain regular bowel movements before or after menstruation. They should try to eat more honey, bananas, celery, sweet potatoes, etc., as constipation can induce menstrual pain and increase pain intensity. Some people believe that menstrual pain patients can drink a little wine, which can help relax mood, relieve liver qi stagnation, and promote smooth qi flow. Additionally, wine is pungent and sweet with a warm nature. The pungent flavor can dispel and promote, making it effective for menstrual pain caused by cold and damp congelation, as it can dispel cold and dampness, activate blood circulation, and promote menstruation. The sweet and moistening properties can nourish and soothe, making it effective for menstrual pain caused by qi and blood deficiency, as it can warm the yang, nourish blood, and relieve pain. Menstrual pain patients should have a varied diet and avoid picky eating. They should regularly consume vegetables and fruits that can regulate qi and activate blood circulation, such as chrysanthemum greens, orchid roots, coriander, carrots, oranges, and Buddha's hand.