Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: Last menstrual period was on 10.23, but it hasn't arrived yet. On 11.30, a pregnancy test was taken and it showed negative. Today, a pregnancy check at the workplace did not detect pregnancy, although the staff mentioned that pregnancy can only be seen after 40 days. I haven't experienced any breast tenderness. Could you please explain what is going on?Medical history: In July, the menstrual period lasted for 18 days (it started on the second day). Hormone test results (6 hormones): T56.4 ng/mL, E251.8 pg/mL, PRL14.7 ng/mL, PROG3.4 ng/mL, LH11.2 mIU/mL.
Doctor's answer:
Menstrual delay is considered primarily caused by disharmony of qi and blood in traditional Chinese medicine. Generally, factors such as sudden exposure to cold, staying up late, dietary restrictions, emotional fluctuations, high work-life pressure, and endocrine issues can all lead to delayed menstruation. If the delay is prolonged and occurs for an extended period, it is recommended to seek timely regulation, as long-term menstrual delay in women can easily lead to endocrine disorders, premature aging, menopausal symptoms, and more. During menstruation, women should avoid eating cold, sour, spicy, or other stimulating foods and should drink more warm water to maintain smooth bowel movements. Those with blood heat should consume more fresh fruits and vegetables before their period and avoid stimulating foods that promote fire, such as garlic, scallions, chives, and ginger. Those with qi and blood deficiency should increase their nutrition regularly, such as milk, eggs, soy milk, pork liver, spinach, pork, chicken, and lamb, while avoiding cold fruits and vegetables.