Symptom family: Irregular or Abnormal Menstrual and Uterine Bleeding
Parent symptom: Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Bleeding between periods, medically known as intermenstrual bleeding, refers to vaginal bleeding occurring at times other than the regular menstrual cycle. It includes various symptoms like mid-cycle bleeding, spotting, or bleeding during ovulation. This symptom challenges the typical understanding of menstrual regularity, indicating a potential underlying issue. It's a specific form of abnormal uterine bleeding, which can vary from light spotting to heavier bleeding, and can be a cause of concern for many women.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches bleeding between periods as a complex symptom influenced by various patterns of disharmony within the body. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on the physical aspects, TCM delves into the holistic interplay of bodily systems.
It emphasizes that such symptoms are not just gynecological but are often reflections of deeper imbalances. TCM recognizes that to effectively treat this symptom, it's crucial to identify and address the specific pattern of disharmony causing it, which could range from internal heat to Qi (energy) deficiency.
In TCM, bleeding between periods is seen as a manifestation of underlying imbalances. One possible cause is Damp-Heat in the Liver, characterized by symptoms like abdominal fullness and a bitter taste in the mouth. This condition is typically treated with formulas designed to clear Heat and Dampness from the Liver.
Another cause could be Blood Stagnation, where blood does not flow properly, leading to sporadic bleeding. This is addressed with formulas that invigorate blood and dispel stagnation. Additionally, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency might cause bleeding, requiring nourishment of yin and cooling of blood. TCM practitioners carefully diagnose the specific pattern before selecting an appropriate treatment.
Explore below more details about what might cause Bleeding between periods according to TCM.
In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more
Common Symptoms: Dizziness Dark Urine Fever Sticky Taste In The Mouth Feeling Of Heaviness Bitter Taste In The Mouth Abdominal Fullness Menstrual Cramps
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Damp-Heat | bleeding between periods, intermenstrual bleeding, mid cycle bleeding, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more | Ba Zheng San |
Damp-Heat in the Liver | Midcycle bleeding, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Abdominal fullness, Lower abdominal fullness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Sticky taste in the mouth, Lack of appetite, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Yellow vaginal discharge, Vaginal itching, Vulvar eczema, Vulvar sores, Bleeding between periods, Midcycle bleeding pain, Red and swollen scrotum, Red and swelling genital, Papules, Itchy vesicular rashes, Urinary dysfunction, Urinary burning, Dark urine... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Yin Chen Hao Tang |
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood | bleeding between periods, intermenstrual bleeding, mid cycle bleeding, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night sweats, Back pain, Dark urine | Liang Di Tang | Er Zhi Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan |
"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
Common Symptoms: Fever Sticky Taste In The Mouth Feeling Of Heaviness Bitter Taste In The Mouth Abdominal Fullness Menstrual Cramps Lack Of Appetite Yellow Vaginal Discharge
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Damp-Heat | bleeding between periods, intermenstrual bleeding, mid cycle bleeding, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more | Ba Zheng San |
Damp-Heat in the Liver | Midcycle bleeding, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Abdominal fullness, Lower abdominal fullness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Sticky taste in the mouth, Lack of appetite, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Yellow vaginal discharge, Vaginal itching, Vulvar eczema, Vulvar sores, Bleeding between periods, Midcycle bleeding pain, Red and swollen scrotum, Red and swelling genital, Papules, Itchy vesicular rashes, Urinary dysfunction, Urinary burning, Dark urine... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Yin Chen Hao Tang |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood | bleeding between periods, intermenstrual bleeding, mid cycle bleeding, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night sweats, Back pain, Dark urine | Liang Di Tang | Er Zhi Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Blood Stagnation | bleeding between periods, intermenstrual bleeding, mid cycle bleeding, Dark face, Purple lips, Stabbing fixed pain, Abdominal masses, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Lumps... see more | Zhu Yu Zhi Xue Tang |
Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency | bleeding between periods, intermenstrual bleeding, mid cycle bleeding, Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Coughing, Vomit... see more | Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang |
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
Common Symptoms: Dizziness Tinnitus Back Pain Night Sweats Dark Urine Abdominal Pain That Worsens With Cold Urinary Dysfunction Deep Pain And Heaviness In Limbs
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood | bleeding between periods, intermenstrual bleeding, mid cycle bleeding, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night sweats, Back pain, Dark urine | Liang Di Tang | Er Zhi Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan |
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency | bleeding between periods, intermenstrual bleeding, mid cycle bleeding, Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Coughing, Vomit... see more | Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang |
In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more
Common Symptoms: Dark Urine Dizziness Tinnitus Night Sweats Back Pain Hypochondrial Fullness And Distention With Pain Alleviated By Warmth Abdominal Fullness Lower Abdominal Fullness
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Damp-Heat in the Liver | Midcycle bleeding, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Abdominal fullness, Lower abdominal fullness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Sticky taste in the mouth, Lack of appetite, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Yellow vaginal discharge, Vaginal itching, Vulvar eczema, Vulvar sores, Bleeding between periods, Midcycle bleeding pain, Red and swollen scrotum, Red and swelling genital, Papules, Itchy vesicular rashes, Urinary dysfunction, Urinary burning, Dark urine... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Yin Chen Hao Tang |
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood | bleeding between periods, intermenstrual bleeding, mid cycle bleeding, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night sweats, Back pain, Dark urine | Liang Di Tang | Er Zhi Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan |
In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency | bleeding between periods, intermenstrual bleeding, mid cycle bleeding, Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Coughing, Vomit... see more | Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang |
For conditions like Damp-Heat in the Liver, TCM recommends formulas such as Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, which includes Chinese Gentian, known for its properties of clearing heat and drying dampness.
In cases of Blood Stagnation, Zhu Yu Zhi Xue Tang is often used, leveraging herbs like Unprepared Rehmannia to invigorate blood flow and resolve stagnation.
When dealing with Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, formulas such as Liang Di Tang and Er Zhi Wan are prescribed, containing herbs like Glossy Privet Fruits, which nourish yin and cool the blood. Each TCM formula is chosen based on the individual's specific pattern of disharmony, ensuring a personalized and effective treatment approach.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address bleeding between periods, organized by cause and by formula type.
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause bleeding between periods, such as Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Liang Di Tang | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood |
Er Zhi Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood |
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood |
Zuo Gui Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood |
Ba Zheng San | Damp-Heat |
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Damp-Heat in the Liver |
Yin Chen Hao Tang | Damp-Heat in the Liver |
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause bleeding between periods, such as Damp-Heat
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Ba Zheng San | Damp-Heat |
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Damp-Heat in the Liver |
Yin Chen Hao Tang | Damp-Heat in the Liver |
Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause bleeding between periods, such as Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Liang Di Tang | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood |
Er Zhi Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood |
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood |
Zuo Gui Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood |
Suitable for Blood Stasis patterns that may cause bleeding between periods, such as Blood Stagnation
Learn moreSuitable for Yang Deficiency patterns that may cause bleeding between periods, such as Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency
Learn moreThese formulas are suitable for some bleeding between periods-causing patterns like Damp-Heat.
One such formula is Ba Zheng San, with chinese pink herb as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Ba Zheng San | Damp-Heat |
Yin Chen Hao Tang | Damp-Heat in the Liver |
These formulas are suitable for some bleeding between periods-causing patterns like Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood.
One such formula is Liang Di Tang, with unprepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Liang Di Tang | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood |
Er Zhi Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood |
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood |
Zuo Gui Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood |
These formulas are suitable for some bleeding between periods-causing patterns like Blood Stagnation.
One such formula is Zhu Yu Zhi Xue Tang, with unprepared rehmannia as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some bleeding between periods-causing patterns like Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency.
One such formula is Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some bleeding between periods-causing patterns like Damp-Heat in the Liver.
One such formula is Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, with chinese gentian as a key herb.
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address bleeding between periods, organized by herb category.
Bleeding between periods can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Chinese Pink Herbs (Qu Mai), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bleeding between periods, like Ba Zheng San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
---|---|
Chinese Pink Herbs (Qu Mai) | Ba Zheng San |
Knotgrass (Bian Xu) | Ba Zheng San |
Virgate Wormwood (Yin Chen) | Yin Chen Hao Tang |
Bleeding between 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 Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bleeding between periods, like Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
---|---|
Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) | Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang |
Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang |
Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu) | Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang |
Bleeding between periods can be treated by these herbs when caused by a lack of Yin, which is essential for cooling and moistening the body, thereby restoring balance.
One such herb is Glossy Privet Fruits (Nu Zhen Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bleeding between periods, like Er Zhi Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
---|---|
Glossy Privet Fruits (Nu Zhen Zi) | Er Zhi Wan |
Eclipta Herbs (Mo han lian) | Er Zhi Wan |
Bleeding between periods can be treated by these herbs when it is a consequence of excess heat in the blood, helping to cool and detoxify the blood.
One such herb is Unprepared Rehmannia (Di Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bleeding between periods, like Liang Di Tang.
Bleeding between 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 bleeding between periods, like Liu Wei Di Huang Wan.
Bleeding between periods can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness and heat within the body, aiming to restore balance by drying dampness and clearing heat.
One such herb is Chinese Gentian (Long Dan Cao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bleeding between periods, like Long Dan Xie Gan Tang.