Menstrual irregularity is one of the most common presentations in a TCM clinic — and one of the most nuanced. Before reaching for a formula, we need to ask: what is the root pattern?
Three patterns frequently appear together or in sequence:
- Blood Deficiency — scanty, pale flow, dizziness, palpitations, dryness. The cycle may be long or the flow simply thin. Nourishing Blood/Xue is the foundation here.
- Kidney Yang Deficiency — cold lower abdomen, low-back weakness, late or absent periods, nocturia. We gently warm Yang without depleting Yin.
- Damp-Heat Encumbering the Spleen — heavy, sticky sensations, yellow or thick discharge, a feeling of internal heat combined with fullness. This often complicates the picture significantly.
These patterns rarely arrive alone. Qi Stagnation or Blood Stasis may layer on top, shifting timing, color, and pain quality. A thorough tongue-pulse assessment is irreplaceable.
Where do you typically begin your gynecology intake? Do you prioritize Kidney root, Liver Qi, or Spleen transformation first? Share your clinical reasoning below — this is a space for learning together.
