Short Periodsaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Abnormal Menstrual Flow, Texture or Color
Did you mean? Scanty Menstruation
What is Short Periods?
Short periods, medically known as shortened menstrual flow or brief menstrual cycles, are a variation of the menstrual cycle where bleeding occurs for a significantly lesser duration than the average menstrual period. This condition can manifest in various forms, such as Short Menstrual Duration, and is characterized by a notable reduction in the length of menstrual bleeding.
How does TCM view Short Periods?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets short periods as a symptom arising from imbalances within the body's fundamental systems. This approach contrasts with Western medicine's focus on specific reproductive system dysfunctions.
In TCM, short periods are often seen as an indicator of underlying disharmonies, such as Blood Deficiency or Yin Deficiency. The treatment in TCM aims to identify and correct these root imbalances, emphasizing the importance of restoring overall harmony in the body.
Root Causes of Short Periods in TCM
TCM attributes short periods to several patterns of disharmony within the body. Blood Deficiency is a common cause, characterized by symptoms like dizziness, a dull facial complexion, and poor memory, in addition to shortened menstrual flow. This pattern indicates a lack of adequate blood to sustain a normal menstrual cycle.
Another pattern, Yin Deficiency, often manifests through symptoms like back and knee pain, dizziness, and a pale menstrual flow. It reflects a depletion of the body's nourishing and moisturizing energy, affecting menstrual regularity.
Additionally, Blood Stagnation can be a contributing factor, evidenced by symptoms such as menstrual cramps, dark menstrual clots, and a dark facial complexion, suggesting impeded blood flow.
Phlegm, particularly Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus, is another TCM pattern linked to short periods, characterized by symptoms like abdominal heaviness, fatigue, and a feeling of chest oppression, indicating an accumulation of dampness and phlegm affecting the reproductive system.
Explore below more details about what might cause Short periods according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Blood Deficiency
- Yin Deficiency
- Blood Stasis
- Phlegm
- Dampness
- View More Causes
- Kidney
- Uterus
Blood Deficiency
Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more
Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Short Periods
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Deficiency | short periods, Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory, Insomnia... see more | Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang | Si Wu Tang |
Yin Deficiency
Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more
Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Short Periods
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney-Deficiency | short periods, Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Frequent urination, Late menstruation, Chills, Cold extremities... see more | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | He Che Da Zao Wan |
Blood Stasis
Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more
Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Short Periods
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Stagnation | short periods, Dark face, Purple lips, Stabbing fixed pain, Abdominal masses, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Lumps... see more | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang |
Phlegm
In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more
Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Short Periods
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | short periods, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
Dampness
"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more
Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Short Periods
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | short periods, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
Kidney
In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more
Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Short Periods
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney-Deficiency | short periods, Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Frequent urination, Late menstruation, Chills, Cold extremities... see more | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | He Che Da Zao Wan |
Uterus
In TCM the Uterus (or "Bao Gong") is not just a reproductive organ but a vital system closely linked to Kidney energy, responsible for menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy. It's also connected to the Heart and Liver, reflecting the importance of emotional and blood health in reproductive wellness. In TCM, the Uterus is seen as a reservoir of Blood and Qi, crucial for reproductive health and general vitality. When the Uterus malfunctions or is imbalanced, it can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriages, or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, there might be symptoms like lower abdominal pain or emotional disturbances such as mood swings, often linked to Liver Qi stagnation. These manifestations highlight the TCM perspective that the health of the Uterus is intertwined with the overall balance of energy and blood in the body, as well as emotional well-being.... see more
Uterus Patterns That Can Lead to Short Periods
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | short periods, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Short Periods
In TCM, specific formulas and herbs are prescribed based on the identified pattern of disharmony. For Blood Deficiency, Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang and Si Wu Tang, containing ingredients like Ginseng and Prepared rehmannia, are recommended to enhance blood nourishment.
To address Yin Deficiency, Dang Gui Di Huang Yin and Shi Quan Da Bu Tang, which include herbs like Dong Quai and Milkvetch Roots, are used to replenish Yin energy. Tao Hong Si Wu Tang and Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang, containing Peach Kernels and Szechuan Lovage Roots, are prescribed for Blood Stagnation to improve blood circulation.
For Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus, formulas like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan and Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang, with herbs like Coco-Grass Rhizomes and Dong quai, are used to resolve phlegm and dampness. These treatments aim to address the specific TCM patterns contributing to short periods, focusing on restoring the body's balance and normalizing menstrual function.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address short periods, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Blood Deficiency
- Yin Deficiency
- Blood Stasis
- Phlegm
- Dampness
- View More Causes
- Formulas that tonify blood
- Formulas that tonify yin and yang
- Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
- Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
Top Formula for Blood Deficiency:
Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang
Suitable for Blood Deficiency patterns that may cause short periods, such as Blood Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Short Periods Caused by Blood Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang | Blood Deficiency |
| Si Wu Tang | Blood Deficiency |
Top Formula for Yin Deficiency:
Dang Gui Di Huang Yin
Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause short periods, such as Kidney-Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Short Periods Caused by Yin Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Kidney-Deficiency |
| Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Kidney-Deficiency |
| He Che Da Zao Wan | Kidney-Deficiency |
Top Formula for Blood Stasis:
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang
Suitable for Blood Stasis patterns that may cause short periods, such as Blood Stagnation
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Short Periods Caused by Blood Stasis
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Blood Stagnation |
| Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Blood Stagnation |
| Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Blood Stagnation |
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause short periods, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Short Periods Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Top Formula for Dampness:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause short periods, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Short Periods Caused by Dampness
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Formulas that tonify Blood
These formulas are suitable for some short periods-causing patterns like Blood Deficiency.
One such formula is Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang, with ginseng as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for short periods
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang | Blood Deficiency |
| Si Wu Tang | Blood Deficiency |
| Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Kidney-Deficiency |
| Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Blood Stagnation |
Formulas that tonify Yin and Yang
These formulas are suitable for some short periods-causing patterns like Kidney-Deficiency.
One such formula is Shi Quan Da Bu Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that tonify yin and yang" recommended for short periods
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Kidney-Deficiency |
| He Che Da Zao Wan | Kidney-Deficiency |
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
These formulas are suitable for some short periods-causing patterns like Blood Stagnation.
One such formula is Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang, with szechuan lovage root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation" recommended for short periods
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Blood Stagnation |
| Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Blood Stagnation |
Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some short periods-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan, with coco-grass rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for short periods
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
TCM Herbs for Short Periods
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address short periods, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Tonic herbs for yang deficiency
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Short periods can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.
One such herb is Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for short periods, like Si Wu Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency" recommended for short periods
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang) | Si Wu Tang | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin |
| Dong Quai (Dang Gui) | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
| White Peony Roots (Bai Shao) | Si Wu Tang |
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Short periods can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong), a key herb in some formulas recommended for short periods, like Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for short periods
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong) | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
| Peach Kernels (Tao Ren) | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang |
| Safflowers (Hong Hua) | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang |
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Short periods can be treated by these herbs when stemming from a lack of vital energy or Qi, helping to boost energy and overall vitality.
One such herb is Ginseng (Ren Shen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for short periods, like Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for short periods
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang |
| Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang |
Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency
Short periods can be treated by these herbs in situations of diminished Yang energy, aiming to warm and activate the body's functions.
One such herb is Human Placentas (Zi He Che), a key herb in some formulas recommended for short periods, like He Che Da Zao Wan.
Herbs that regulate Qi
Short periods can be treated by these herbs when resulting from Qi stagnation or imbalance, helping to promote the smooth flow of Qi in the body.
One such herb is Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for short periods, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.
Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness
Short periods can be treated by these herbs if it stems from damp accumulation, especially in the digestive system, using aromatic properties to transform and dispel dampness.
One such herb is Black Atractylodes Rhizomes (Cang Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for short periods, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.