Blood clots during menstruation in Chinese Medicine (TCM)
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), blood clots during menstruation are often seen as a sign of Qi (energy) and Blood stagnation, Cold in the uterus, or an imbalance in the body’s internal systems. The appearance, size, and frequency of the clots provide clues about the underlying disharmony. Here are some common TCM perspectives and their associated patterns:
1. Blood Stasis and Qi Stagnation
Symptoms: Dark red or purplish clots, sharp or stabbing menstrual pain, delayed or irregular periods, bloating, irritability, breast tenderness.
Cause: Stress, emotional tension, liver Qi stagnation, lack of exercise, or a sedentary lifestyle can lead to poor circulation of Qi and Blood.
TCM Herbs: Chuan Xiong (川芎), Dan Shen (丹参), Tao Ren (桃仁), Hong Hua (红花).
Acupuncture Points: LV3 (Taichong), SP6 (Sanyinjiao), ST29 (Guilai), Ren6 (Qihai).
2. Cold in the Uterus
Symptoms: Dark-colored menstrual blood with large clots, intense cramping relieved by warmth, cold hands and feet, pale complexion.
Cause: Exposure to cold (cold drinks, raw foods, cold weather), Kidney Yang deficiency, or a weak constitution.
TCM Herbs: Ai Ye (艾叶), Fu Zi (附子), Rou Gui (肉桂), Dang Gui (当归).
Acupuncture Points: Ren4 (Guanyuan), Du4 (Mingmen), SP8 (Diji), ST36 (Zusanli).
3. Blood Deficiency Leading to Blood Stagnation
Symptoms: Light flow with some clots, pale complexion, dizziness, fatigue, palpitations, dry skin.
Cause: Poor nutrition, chronic illness, excessive bleeding in previous cycles.
TCM Herbs: Dang Gui (当归), Bai Shao (白芍), He Shou Wu (何首乌).
Acupuncture Points: SP6 (Sanyinjiao), ST36 (Zusanli), LV8 (Ququan), Ren4 (Guanyuan).
4. Damp-Heat in the Lower Jiao (Pelvic Region)
Symptoms: Thick, sticky blood with clots, foul-smelling menstrual blood, burning sensation, vaginal discharge, possible infections.
Cause: Excessive consumption of spicy, greasy, or damp-producing foods, poor digestion.
TCM Herbs: Huang Bai (黄柏), Bai Jiang Cao (败酱草), Chi Shao (赤芍).
Acupuncture Points: SP9 (Yinlingquan), LV2 (Xingjian), Ren3 (Zhongji).
Lifestyle & Dietary Recommendations
Avoid cold and raw foods: No iced drinks, salads, or excessive dairy.
Stay warm: Keep the lower abdomen warm, especially before and during menstruation.
Exercise gently: Qi Gong, yoga, and walking can improve circulation.
Herbal teas: Ginger tea with red dates, cinnamon, and goji berries helps warm the uterus.
Acupressure & Moxibustion: Applying warmth to points like Ren4 and SP6 can relieve pain and dissolve clots.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), blood clots during menstruation are often a sign of Qi and Blood stagnation, Cold in the uterus, Blood deficiency, or Damp-Heat imbalance. The underlying causes can stem from dietary habits, emotional stress, cold exposure, or internal deficiencies. By identifying the root pattern, TCM offers holistic treatments through herbal medicine, acupuncture, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes to restore balance, improve circulation, and alleviate menstrual discomfort. Maintaining warmth, managing stress, and nourishing the Blood are key to preventing stagnation and ensuring a smooth menstrual flow.
This information is only educational and should not be construed as medical advice.
Everything must be balanced, and the suggestions may not apply to you.
A specialist doctor should be consulted for any medical advice or diagnosis.
Acupuncture near me at Forest Hill, New York
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Dr. Phumlarp Caulo LA,c, MAc. OM, DAHM
Doctor of Acupuncture/Chinese Medicine
Caulo Care Acupuncture
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