Uneven Milk Supplyaccording to TCM

What is spontaneous flow of breast milk?

Spontaneous flow of breast milk, or galactorrhea, is a condition where breast milk is produced and released without the usual stimuli of pregnancy or breastfeeding. This unexpected milk production can occur in women who have never been pregnant, those not currently breastfeeding, and even in men in rare cases. The milk may leak from one or both breasts, ranging from a few drops to a more significant flow. While often benign, this condition can indicate underlying hormonal imbalances or more serious medical conditions.

Western medicine attributes spontaneous milk flow to factors such as certain medications, pituitary gland disorders, or hormonal fluctuations. Treatment typically focuses on addressing the underlying cause, which may involve adjusting medications, hormone therapy, or surgical intervention.

How does TCM view spontaneous flow of breast milk?

Traditional Chinese Medicine views spontaneous flow of breast milk as a manifestation of imbalance within the body's energy systems. TCM considers this condition a result of disrupted Qi flow and imbalances in the body's organs and meridians, particularly those associated with the breasts and reproductive system. In TCM, identifying the specific pattern of disharmony is crucial before initiating treatment, allowing for targeted interventions that address the root cause rather than merely suppressing symptoms.

Root Causes of Uneven Milk Supply in TCM

TCM recognizes several patterns of disharmony that can lead to spontaneous flow of breast milk. Two primary patterns are Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation turning into Heat. Qi Deficiency, which may manifest as Qi and Blood Deficiency or Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency, results in the body lacking the energy to properly regulate its functions, including milk production. Individuals experiencing this pattern may also notice general weakness, fatigue, a weak voice, and a pale complexion.

Liver Qi Stagnation turning into Heat presents differently. In this pattern, emotional stress or frustration leads to stagnant Liver Qi, which over time transforms into Heat. This excess Heat can disrupt the body's normal functions, potentially triggering unexpected milk production. Accompanying symptoms might include irritability, mood swings, and a sensation of fullness in the chest and upper abdomen.

Explore below more details about what might cause Uneven milk supply according to TCM.

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Uneven Milk Supply

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation	Uneven milk supply, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger, Melasma... see more	Gua Lou San

Heat

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

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Uneven Milk Supply

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat	Uneven milk supply, Toothache, Headaches, Loose teeth, Bleeding gums, Irritability, Thirst, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia... see more	Gua Lou San

Liver

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

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Uneven Milk Supply

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation	Uneven milk supply, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger, Melasma... see more	Gua Lou San

Stomach

In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more

Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Uneven Milk Supply

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat	Uneven milk supply, Toothache, Headaches, Loose teeth, Bleeding gums, Irritability, Thirst, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia... see more	Gua Lou San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Uneven Milk Supply

TCM offers various herbal formulas to address spontaneous flow of breast milk, tailored to the specific pattern of disharmony. For Qi and Blood Deficiency, formulas such as Si Wu Tang or Tong Ru Dan may be recommended. Si Wu Tang, which tonifies Blood, often includes Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang). Tong Ru Dan, which regulates Blood, typically incorporates Ginseng (Ren Shen) for its Qi-tonifying properties.

For Liver Qi Stagnation turning into Heat, practitioners might prescribe Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San or Long Dan Xie Gan Tang. These formulas aim to clear Liver Heat and soothe stagnant Liver Qi. Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San features Mudan Peony Bark (Mu Dan Pi) to cool the Blood, while Long Dan Xie Gan Tang includes Chinese Gentian (Long Dan Cao) to clear Heat and dry Dampness. It's important to note that herbal treatments should always be guided by a qualified TCM practitioner, considering the individual's overall health condition and specific pattern of disharmony.

A modern formulation that combines traditional TCM wisdom with contemporary convenience is the 'Unblock Nursing Tea'. This specially designed blend incorporates herbs that address various patterns associated with lactation issues, including spontaneous milk flow. The tea aims to regulate Qi, nourish Blood, and balance the body's energy systems, potentially helping to manage unexpected milk production. While traditional formulas remain valuable, products like 'Unblock Nursing Tea' offer an accessible option for those seeking relief through TCM principles.

It's important to note that all herbal treatments, including 'Unblock Nursing Tea', should be used under the guidance of a qualified TCM practitioner. They will consider the individual's overall health condition and specific pattern of disharmony to ensure the most appropriate and effective treatment approach.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address uneven milk supply, organized by cause and by formula type.

Top Formula for Qi Stagnation:
Gua Lou San

Suitable for Qi Stagnation patterns that may cause uneven milk supply, such as Liver Qi Stagnation

Learn more

Top Formula for Heat:
Gua Lou San

Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause uneven milk supply, such as Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat

Learn more

TCM Herbs for Uneven Milk Supply

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address uneven milk supply, organized by herb category.