How Traditional Chinese Medicine Approaches Menstrual Health

Navigating menstrual issues can often feel like a journey you're taking on your own. It's a road marked by discomfort, irregular cycles, heavy bleeds, fatigue, anxiety, digestive distress and sometimes debilitating  pain. Fortunately, in many cases menstrual cycle issues can be resolved and suffering abated if we lean into the tools available, which starts with educating ourselves about the intricacies and beauty of our infradian rhythm (the entirety of the menstrual cycle including the follicular, ovulatory, luteal and menstrual phases). 

From a young age in American culture, girls are given very little education about our hormones and periods. The entire 28 ish days from the follicular phase to ovulation and on through the luteal phase into menstruation is largely left out of our health education in a meaningful way. Our periods, the time we shed the endometrium in preparation for the next cycle, often get all the press. We are told it’s going to hurt, you’ll probably feel awful, you’ll be moody or bitchy, it’s messy and smelly and something to hide. The narrative is basically “suck it up and show up the same as you would at any other point in the cycle”. This perspective on our menstrual cycles have put us at a disadvantage.

 By knowing our bodies and getting acquainted with our infradian rhythms, we can optimize our health throughout the hormonal phases and create more ease during our premenstrual and menstrual time. Painful periods that are debilitating, that shift our moods into an anxious or depressed state, that knock us out and keep us from our lives are NOT normal. Periods can be a time of self reflection, introversion, self care and rest. When we take time to listen and nourish ourselves well in our late luteal phases and when bleeding begins, as well as address underlying disharmonies with modalities  like acupuncture and herbal medicine we can surf the cycle waves with more empowerment, awareness and ease. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be extremely helpful in mitigating symptoms and treating the root of the issue for each individual person for sustainable and holistic relief. 

Acupuncture and herbal medicine support can be used to revitalize ovulation patterns, balance hormones, and offer tangible pain relief among other myriad benefits.The beauty of the TCM approach lies in the individualized treatment planning that takes into account each person’s unique constitution, health history and physical presentation. 

Key Takeaways

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture focus on balancing qi, blood, yin, yang and fluids in the body to improve menstrual health. 

• Acupuncture can help enhance fertility by improving hormonal balance and supporting ovarian function. It has shown success rates of up to 87.7% for kick-starting ovulation, especially beneficial for women with PCOS or those undergoing IVF treatments.

• Combining acupuncture with specific herbal formulas is a key approach in TCM for addressing menstrual discomforts and infertility issues. This combination aims at creating an optimal environment for both conception and easing menstrual pain.

• Research supports the effectiveness of acupuncture and TCM in treating menstrual and fertility concerns. Studies have found that these methods can lead to better outcomes in pregnancy rates, reduced menstrual pain, and improved overall reproductive health.

• Important acupoints like Spleen 6 (SP6), Liver 3 (LV3), Pericardium 6 (PC6), Kidney 3 (KD3), Ren 4 (CV4), and Ren 6 (CV6) play roles in enhancing menstrual wellness through acupuncture. Herbs such as Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis), Bai Shao (Paeoniae Alba Root), Chai Hu (Bupleurum Root), and Gan Cao (Licorice Root) to name a few are used in the context of targeted formula prescriptions,  alongside needling techniques to support hormone balance and relieve period-related symptoms. A roster of classical formulas with personalized modifications can be employed to address a myriad of menstrual issues. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine's View on Menstrual Health

Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM, sees menstrual health as a mirror of a woman's overall well-being. It focuses on the balance and flow of vital energy, or Qi, to maintain good health. Our periods are the 5th vital sign, revealing to us what may be out of balance and an indicator of overall harmony in the body. 

Painful periods, PMS/PMDD, exceedingly heavy bleeding or scanty bleeding, clotting, period blood that is very dark and thick in color, or pale pink or brown, or neverending spotting all indicate the body may need some extra support.

By using specific needling techniques on points associated with the uterus and ovaries and the channels that traverse those organs, we can increase blood flow, reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. 

In TCM, different organ systems have a role to play throughout the menstrual cycle. The TCM Kidney, for example, plays a key role in controlling the reproductive cycle as it  governs the lower Jiao, or the low abdomen, low back and pelvis including the uterus and ovaries. The Kidney is the source of yuan qi (primal qi) in the body as well as the origin of yin and yang. By supporting the kidneys with acupuncture and herbs, we can alleviate heavy or scanty periods, cold in the low abdomen, low back pain and extreme fatigue. From a more Western lens, this approach helps improve how the brain talks to ovaries and may help address adrenal fatigue and fluid metabolism issues.  

The Liver in TCM is responsible for the timing of the menstrual cycle and is often indicated with PMS, PMDD and cycle irregularity. Premenstrual pain, mood swings and irritability, breast tenderness and digestive changes. Using acupuncture and herbs to support the free flow of Liver qi can help alleviate cramping, smooth  the flow of blood and dispel clotting, soothe the nervous system and stabilize the mood. 

There are a variety of TCM differentials for menstrual issues. Taking the time to be seen by a practitioner who can properly diagnose you and design a customized treatment plan can make all the difference in your results. 

Enhancing Ovulation Through Acupuncture

We see acupuncture doing wonders for women who face challenges with ovulation, particularly those dealing with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and anovulatory infertility. This traditional Chinese technique can kick start ovulation in up to 87.7% of cases involving dysfunctional menstrual cycles and shows a success rate of 36.8% in PCOS instances.

For chronic non-ovulating conditions, acupuncture has managed to reverse the situation by up to 50%. These figures highlight how this ancient practice supports women's health by directly influencing reproductive functions.

Acupuncture can be a bridge, connecting women to their natural cycle rhythms.

In our approach, we use acupuncture at specific body points to improve ovarian function and induce ovulation. This process not only aids in regulating  menstrual cycles but also enhances fertility rates among those seeking pregnancy through IVF treatments, evidenced by higher pregnancy and live birth outcomes.

By gently adjusting the body’s energy flow or Qi, acupuncture restores hormonal balance and may encourage the healthy release of eggs from the ovaries—a critical step for anyone looking forward to conceiving naturally or with assisted reproductive technologies.

Hormonal Balance and Acupuncture

Acupuncture helps address hormone imbalances in the body. For example, many women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) find that acupuncture lowers their high androgen levels and makes their periods more regular.

Acupuncture can restore balance to whatever system is negatively influencing hormones. It can downregulate the sympathetic nervous system, reducing unhealthy cortisol spikes and restoring sleep. By activating the parasympathetic nervous system we can promote rest, digestion and reproduction. We can help optimize digestion and increase function throughout the digestive system, helping with nutrient absorption and detoxification. If detoxification pathways aren’t open, the body can’t properly metabolize estrogen which can throw off the balance of sex hormones and lead to issues like estrogen dominance, weight gain, brain fog and heavy periods. 

Altering the course of the menstrual cycle doesn’t usually occur with one session. Regular sessions over the course of cycles often yield the best results, especially when paired with herbal formulas that can be adjusted throughout the cycle and adapt as the patient presentation changes.  

The goal is to regulate hormones without needing medication or invasive procedures. Acupuncture offers a calming experience while tackling big issues like hormone balance head-on, providing relief and promoting overall wellness. 

Acupuncture for Menstrual Pain Relief

We understand that menstrual pain can really get in the way of daily life. Acupuncture can help ease discomfort by  promoting anti-inflammatory signals and boosting the body’s natural painkillers, like endogenous opioids and neurotransmitters.

This method not only targets the pain but also aims to improve overall menstrual health.

By needling specific points on the body we can open up the channels that traverse the abdomen, pelvis and low back which are common areas for pain around menstruation. These points are carefully chosen to stimulate nerves and muscles, helping to reduce cramps and quell inflammation of the tissues. 

Many women find relief after a session, noting a significant decrease in their pain levels. This technique is especially helpful for those looking for a non-drug solution to manage their menstrual discomfort effectively.

Lifestyle Modifications for Menstrual Health

Cycle syncing is becoming more and more popular as women are finally learning more about their bodies. By being aware of what is happening hormonally within each phase of the cycle, we can find ways to ride the waves as different hormones rise and fall throughout the phases. By tweaking nutrition, exercise modalities, social interactions and work flows women are finding they have more energy, feel more balanced, and have an easier time as menstruation approaches. Periods become more manageable, timing of cycles becomes more reliable, moods stabilize, and we can feel less dragged by our hormones. 

Some simple takeaways, noting that the days are estimates and every cycle is different:

• Day 1-5 or 6  Winter/Menstruation: The first day of bleeding signals Day 1 of your entire cycle. The Kidney in TCM is associated with Winter, and governs the lower Jiao, or the area below the umbilicus as well as the low back and pelvis. Keeping the abdomen, low back and feet warm can be very helpful during the bleed to ease comfort, bloating and cramping. Estrogen and progesterone have plummeted and then begin to slowly rise, prepping the follicles to start preparing the egg for ovulation. Different bodies need different things during this time. Leaning into rest, introspection, nourishment with blood building foods like cooked beets, dark leafy greens, bone broth and grass fed red meat with warming spices can be supportive and blood and qi during this introspective time. 

• Day 6-15 Spring/Follicular: Estrogen continues to dominate this phase, making us more resistant to stress, more extroverted, sociable and energized. Incorporating more vigorous movement, whether that be weight training, HIIT, or cardio can help keep energy levels up. Stimulating the Liver, the organ associated with Spring in TCM,  by keeping detox pathways open is very important here for the metabolism of estrogen. Eating a variety of seasonal vegetables and greens and prioritizing protein to support activity levels can optimize hormones in this phase. Libido may increase throughout this phase as well. Getting outside, moving your body, and engaging with the world can be uplifting and inspiring during this season. 

• Day 13-15 Summer/Ovulation: Testosterone and estrogen are at their peak before an abrupt drop after the egg is released from the ovary. Progesterone is beginning to rise. Activity levels can stay high here if energy levels allow. Weight training is specifically helpful here because of the high levels of testosterone (increases motivation and ability to build muscle). Prioritizing protein and a variety of vegetables can support energy production and muscle protein synthesis. The Heart in TCM is the Queen of Summer. Speak your truth, seek joy, spend time with people that fill you up. Libido climbs throughout Spring, peaking in Summer as well. Rituals for self pleasure, social engagements, public speaking and execution of your goals may seem easier and more enjoyable during this time. 

  Day 15-28 Late Summer and Fall/Luteal Phase: Progesterone steadily rises throughout this phase and will do so until bleeding starts. Many women start to feel more introverted, less motivated to engage socially or push it at work or in the gym during this time. The first week of luteal phase energy levels may still be moderately high but this is the time to lean into what your body is telling you. Increased appetite? Craving sweets?  Would you rather stay home than go out to that party? Are you fatigued when attempting high intensity exercise or cardio? How are you handling stress? The Spleen and Stomach are associated with Late Summer and the Harvest. Our bodies become slightly less sensitive to insulin when progesterone is high, meaning blood sugar balance can be a little more tenuous especially for those struggling with PCOS. Prioritizing protein, healthy fats  and cooked veggies with warming spices like ginger and cinnamon can help soothe the digestive system and balance blood sugar, signaling to the body it is safe. Keeping stressors at a minimum in the luteal phase can prevent mood swings in the late luteal/PMS phase. 

• The late luteal phase (final 5 ish days before menses) is Fall, associated with the Lung and letting go. Progesterone is soaring, and we need to lean into the signals for rest and recuperation when they arise. Saying no when things don’t feel aligned with your energy is a great takeaway here. That may look like emotionally processing whatever feels like it’s coming to the surface with journaling, chatting with close friends or trusted loved ones. Take that nap. Get cozy, with some bone broth hot chocolate and have a good cry with your favorite rom com in the safety of your home if that is what resonates. Yin yoga, mobility exercises or gentle stretching. A practice of non judgment and self compassion when we feel ourselves needing to prioritize ourselves and REST is paramount. Eat your breakfast within 90 minutes of waking, and before your cortisol spiking coffee beverage. All these things send signals of safety to our nervous systems as we prepare for menstruation. 

Key Acupuncture points and Herbal Formulas for Menstrual Wellness

We know how vital menstrual wellness is for overall health. Traditional Chinese Medicine offers unique ways to support this through special points on the body and plant mixtures.

1. Spleen 6 (SP6): This point is on the leg, above the ankle. It's often used to improve blood flow and balance hormones. People find it helps with pain and regular cycles.

2. Liver 3 (LV3): Find this spot on the foot, between the big toe and second toe. It's great for easing cramps and emotional stress that can come with periods.

3. Pericardium 6 (PC6): Located on your arm, a few inches above the wrist, this point calms the mind and eases discomfort in the chest area.

4. Kidney 3 (KD3): On the inner ankle, this one supports kidney health which is closely tied to reproductive health according to Chinese beliefs.

5. Ren 4 (CV4) and Ren 6 (CV6): These are on the lower abdomen and help with energy levels, as well as hormonal balance which can affect menstrual cycles.

For TCM formulas,, we have many herbal allies at our disposal:

A. **Angelica Sinensis (Dang Gui or Dong Quai)** - This plant is famous for its ability to nourish blood and promote circulation, helping with irregular or painful cycles.

B. **Paeoniae Alba Root** - Often used for its muscle relaxing properties, it also supports blood health which can ease cramping.

C. **Bupleurum Root** - This herb works well for mood swings by smoothing liver qi stagnation—a common issue during menstruation according to Chinese medicine principles.

D. **Chaste Tree Berry** - Known for balancing hormones naturally without harsh effects on the body.

E. **Licorice Root** - Adds an overall boost by supporting adrenal gland function which in turn helps with hormonal balance.

These points and herbs form a powerful approach towards improving menstrual wellness holistically—addressing both physical discomforts like cramps or irregularities as well as emotional challenges that may arise around one’s cycle.

Clinical Practice and Future Research Directions

The Benefits of Integrating Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine

We see great results by using both acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine together for menstrual health. This combo helps balance sex hormones and makes ovulation more predictable and consistent. 

By regulating ovulation we can increase the likelihood of a cycling person getting pregnant if that is their goal. Acupuncture and herbal medicine may, may increase  the size of the main follicle in an ovary, and can help thicken the uterine lining. We can also help with proper shedding of the uterine lining during menstruation by opening up circulation to the area, moving blood and qi, and dispelling stasis. 

Our approach interacts with the brain's dopamine system too, which plays a part in regulating hormones that control reproductive functions, in large part by taking the body out of a stress state, and into a parasympathetic state of recovery and optimal functioning. This can notably improve pregnancy outcomes in those with ovulation issues.

Using these ancient practices, we've witnessed remarkable improvements in patients' well-being — from reducing menstrual pain to enhancing overall reproductive health.

Conclusion

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine offer unique ways to improve menstrual health. They work by balancing hormones, easing pain, and even helping ovulation. These methods are both practical and effective for women facing these issues.

FAQs

1. What is acupuncture, and how does it help with menstrual health?

Acupuncture, a key part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves inserting very thin needles into specific points on the body. It's used to balance the flow of energy or life force — known as qi or chi (pronounced "chee") — believed to flow through pathways throughout the body. For menstrual health, acupuncture aims to regulate hormones like gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone, as well as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and cortisol. This can help manage conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovaries, PMS/PMDD and dysmenorrhea by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, supporting detoxification, and calming the nervous system.

2. Can acupuncture treat irregular periods?

Yes! Acupuncture has been shown to address various issues leading to irregular periods like anovulation (when ovulation doesn't occur) and oligomenorrhea (light or infrequent menstruation). By targeting specific points along the body’s meridians, acupuncturists strive to correct hormonal imbalances — including those involving estrogen and progesterone — that can cause menstrual irregularities. This coupled with herbs, supplements and lifestyle modifications can help bring the body back to balance. 

3. Is there any evidence that acupuncture works for menstrual cramps?

Research suggests acupuncture may be effective for pain management related to menstrual cramps due to its potential analgesic effects on the nervous system. Studies have found that it increases the release of beta-endorphin – a natural painkiller produced by our bodies – which could explain its ability in reducing discomfort during menses. Certain herbal remedies aimed at moving qi and blood and dispelling stasis can also help alleviate painful cramping. 

4. How does acupuncture affect fertility?

Acupuncture supports fertility by enhancing ovarian function thus promoting ovulation induction; it also improves uterine blood circulation which helps increase endometrial thickness making it more conducive for implantation. Additionally, some studies suggest that when combined with treatments like IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation), acupuncture might improve pregnancy rates possibly by decreasing stress levels and balancing reproductive hormones.

5. Can I use acupuncture alongside other treatments for menopause symptoms?

Absolutely! Acupuncture offers a holistic approach that complements integrative medicine practices well; meaning you can safely combine it with conventional therapies under professional guidance. It’s particularly beneficial for managing menopausal symptoms such as hot-flashes, mood swings/anxiety, dryness and sleep disturbances without relying solely on medication.