Irregular Menstruation

Most women go through a menstrual cycle once every month. However, some women may experience more or less than the normal amount. This is very common in the first few years of menstruation as well as the last few before menopause occurs, because the hormones in the female body take some time to adapt to the change.

Another reason for missed periods is pregnancy. The menstrual cycle will stop for the time period in which a woman is pregnant but it will usually recommence after completing breastfeeding. If you think that there is a possibility of you being pregnant, it is important that you treat yourself as though you are pregnant, regardless of whether or not you are certain.

There are many other reasons for irregular or missed periods including:

- Excessive weight loss/dieting

- Mental illness (stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar, etc.)

- Eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia, etc.)

- Travel

- Use of medications (birth control, antibiotics, antidepressants, etc.)

- Diseases (irritable bowel syndrome, tuberculosis, diabetes, etc.)

After the period of menstruation, women will go through menopause, usually after the age of 45. Premature ovarian failure is when a woman goes through menopause before the age of 40. This can be due to various factors such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

TCM Approach to Irregular Menstruation

Traditional Chinese doctors see irregular menstruation as being a result of blocked chi (vital energy) and blood deficiency from the reasons mentioned above, in particular mental disorders. Factors such as depression, anxiety, excessive anger, frustration, etc. can result in the constriction of chi circulation in the pelvic region. TCM treatment options include acupuncture, which targets the constricted chi affected meridian points; and herbal medicine, which allows blood flow to the pelvic organs.

In order for these treatment options to be fully effective, you must ensure that you have healthy diet which does not include foods that are spicy, too cold or raw. You must also avoid excessive physical exercise and emotional stress.

My Clinic

At my clinic, I have treated many patients suffering from irregular menstruation over the years with a high degree of success. If you have any queries or would like to book an appointment, please do not hesitate to contact us or visit our website.