Postpartum Hemorrhageaccording to TCM
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Symptom family: Postpartum issues
Did you mean? Prolonged Lochia
What is Postpartum Hemorrhage?
Postpartum hemorrhage is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by excessive bleeding following childbirth. This complication can occur within the first 24 hours after delivery (primary postpartum hemorrhage) or between 24 hours and 12 weeks postpartum (secondary postpartum hemorrhage).
It encompasses various forms such as persistent postpartum bleeding, sudden postpartum uterus bleeding, and postnatal hemorrhage, demanding immediate medical attention to prevent severe consequences.
How Does TCM View Postpartum Hemorrhage?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, postpartum hemorrhage is understood as an imbalance or disharmony within the bodys vital energy systems following childbirth. TCM practitioners view this condition through the lens of energy flow, organ function, and blood circulation, considering both physical and energetic factors.
The TCM approach emphasizes restoring balance and strengthening the bodys natural systems to address the root cause of the hemorrhage.
Causes of Postpartum Hemorrhage According to TCM
TCM identifies several key patterns that can contribute to postpartum hemorrhage. One major cause is Qi And Blood Stagnation, where the flow of vital energy and Blood through the body is impeded, leading to excessive bleeding. This condition often manifests with symptoms such as stabbing pain, irritability, and mood swings.
Another pattern is Spleen and Kidney Qi Deficiency, where the bodys essential energy reserves are depleted, leading to weakness and inability to control bleeding. TCM treatments aim to address these underlying patterns to effectively manage postpartum hemorrhage.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Postpartum Hemorrhage
TCM employs various herbal formulas to treat postpartum hemorrhage, tailored to the individuals specific pattern of disharmony. For Spleen and Kidney Qi Deficiency, formulas like Gu Chong Tang, containing Cornelian Cherries, are used to bolster the bodys’ energy and stabilize bleeding. In cases of Blood Stagnation, Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan, with Cinnamon Twigs, is often prescribed to invigorate blood circulation and alleviate stagnation. For severe conditions like Heart Yang Collapsing or Collapse of Yang, Shen Fu Tang with Ginseng can be lifesaving by rescuing devastated Yang and restoring vital energy.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address postpartum hemorrhage, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
- Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
- Formulas that rescue devastated yang
Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
Postpartum hemorrhage can be treated by these formulas when it arises from disharmony in the female reproductive system, resulting in symptoms like irregular bleeding or abnormal discharge.
One such formula is Gu Chong Tang, with cornelian cherries as a key herb.
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
Postpartum hemorrhage can be treated by these formulas if it arises from poor blood circulation or stagnation of blood, which often manifests in pain or swelling.
One such formula is Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan, with cinnamon twigs as a key herb.
Formulas that rescue devastated Yang
Postpartum hemorrhage can be treated by these formulas if it is a result of a severe depletion or collapse of Yang energy, requiring urgent restoration and warming actions.
One such formula is Shen Fu Tang, with ginseng as a key herb.
Acupoints for Postpartum Hemorrhage
Acupuncture is another critical facet of TCM for treating postpartum hemorrhage. Key acupoints include Jianjing GB-21, located on the shoulder, which is known for its ability to promote lactation and descend Qi, aiding in labor-related complications.
Another important point is Xuehai SP-10 on the knee, renowned for its properties in cooling and invigorating blood, regulating menstruation, and addressing skin issues. Stimulating these points can be effective in managing postpartum hemorrhage, especially when combined with herbal treatments.
Explore below some acupoints used to address postpartum hemorrhage, organized by meridian.
- By Meridian
- Gall Bladder Channel
- Spleen Channel
Jianjing GB-21
Midway between Dazhui DU-14 and the lateral extremity of the acromion, at the highest point of the shoulder.
Xuehai SP-10
When knee is flexed, Xuehai SP-10 is 2 cun above the medial upper border of the patella, in a depression on the vastus medialis muscle.
TCM Herbs for Postpartum Hemorrhage
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address postpartum hemorrhage, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that stabilize and bind
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
Herbs that stabilize and bind
Postpartum hemorrhage can be treated by these herbs if it is caused by a leakage of bodily fluids or energies, helping to consolidate and preserve the body's essential substances.
One such herb is Cornelian Cherries (Shan Zhu Yu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for postpartum hemorrhage, like Gu Chong Tang.
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Postpartum hemorrhage can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Cinnamon Twigs (Gui Zhi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for postpartum hemorrhage, like Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Postpartum hemorrhage 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 Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling), a key herb in some formulas recommended for postpartum hemorrhage, like Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan.
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Postpartum hemorrhage 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 postpartum hemorrhage, like Shen Fu Tang.