Patient's question:
I have not had regular periods since I was 16. Sometimes I only have 5 to 6 periods a year, and sometimes only once a year. However, each period is normal—moderate flow and lasting seven days—but it is not seasonal either, as sometimes I have periods for several consecutive months. My body has always been quite healthy, and I have not felt any discomfort. Ultrasound checks have shown that my uterus is normal. Despite taking many years of Chinese and Western medicine, the situation remains the same. I am very worried that this might affect my future fertility. Could you please tell me what this condition is and if it can be treated?Doctor's answer:
Irregular menstruation is a common disease among women. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) generally attributes it to issues in the liver, spleen, and kidneys. Therefore, regulating menstruation typically involves tonifying the kidneys, supporting the spleen, soothing the liver, and balancing qi and blood.1. Tonifying the Kidneys: TCM believes that menstrual blood originates from the kidneys, so the fundamental approach to regulating menstruation is to tonify the kidneys. If kidney qi is sufficient and essence-blood is abundant, menstruation will naturally flow smoothly. The method of tonifying the kidneys primarily focuses on replenishing essence and blood.
2. Supporting the Spleen: TCM holds that the spleen’s function is to transform and generate blood. Nourishing the spleen can replenish the body’s blood source. The method primarily focuses on strengthening the spleen and elevating yang.
3. Soothing the Liver: The main goal is to regulate qi and smooth the flow of qi and blood. If qi and blood are harmonious, menstruation will flow smoothly.
Blood is the material foundation of menstruation, while qi is the driving force for blood circulation. If qi and blood are out of balance, it is often the primary cause of irregular menstruation. Therefore, the key to treating irregular menstruation lies in regulating qi and blood. When the issue lies in qi, the focus should be on treating qi, supplemented by nourishing and invigorating blood. When the issue lies in blood, the focus should be on invigorating blood, with supplementary qi regulation. TCM treats irregular menstruation by addressing the liver, spleen, and kidneys to achieve qi and blood harmony, allowing menstruation to naturally regulate.
Irregular Menstruation
Both excessive and insufficient menstruation fall under the category of irregular menstruation. It can lead to iron-deficiency anemia and is a common gynecological condition. Hormonal disruptions in the menstrual cycle, as well as diseases such as uterine tumors, pelvic infections, endometriosis, or improperly inserted intrauterine devices, can also cause irregular menstruation. Below are some preventive and regulatory methods.
Home Treatment Measures
● Prevent Cold Exposure
It is essential to avoid getting wet or wading in rain during the menstrual period.