In Chinese medicine it is believed the menstrual cycle is a window into the health of a female body. The menstrual cycle allows us to identify imbalances and patterns and receive messages from our internal state. In Chinese medicine the menstrual cycle is understood through yin, yang, qi and blood, and is divided into four phases. These phases are menstruation (the period), Follicular phase, ovulation and luteal phase.
Phase 1: Menstruation, period days 1-5.
During this phase your uterine lining sheds. This phase is all about the movement of qi and blood.
In a healthy period you should experience no pain, no clotting, and really no symptoms. It should feel painless and easy. You should be soaking a tampon or pad about every 4 hours for 3-5 days. Significantly less or more than this could lead to long term health issues.
This is a good time to focus on foods high in Omega-3s antioxidants anti-inflammatories. Try reducing consumption of red meat and alcohol during this time, these foods are high in prostaglandins which our body is already naturally high in this time and too much can increase pain and inflammation.
Phase 2: Follicular Phase/ Postmenstrual Phase, period days 5-12
During this phase Estrogen rises to support the thickening of the uterine lining and a new follicle in the ovaries. This phase is all about rebuilding blood and yin- these substances nourish and support regrowth of the uterine lining, follicles, and fluids. During this phase you should have an increase in energy. This is a great time to make those fitness gains in strength and endurance.
It is beneficial to eat foods high in vitamin D and A, zinc and selenium to help build the uterine line in preparation for ovulation.
Phase 3: Ovulation, period days 12-16
Rising estrogen triggers a surge in LH and FSH, which cause the release of an egg from the follicle. There is a short spike in testosterone here. At ovulation, yin reaches its peak, and the cycle transitions to yang. Ovulation only lasts 12-24 hours. During this time you might feel more energized with that spike in testosterone. This is a good time to reduce damp and phlegmy foods from your diet such as; dairy, sugar, etc. You might notice when you ovulate a sticky discharge. A healthy discharge is clear and white and the consistency of egg whites. Too thick, colored, or foul odor is not ideal.
Phase 4: Luteal Phase, period days 16-28
Progesterone rises and becomes dominant which proliferates the uterine lining to support a potential pregnancy. During this phase all resources are in demand; qi, blood, yin and yang. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, progesterone fades and triggers the menstrual phase to begin a new cycle. Qi and yang are predominant here, which you will need plenty of to help regulate the smooth flow of your cycle. Dysregulation of qi can result in pms and painful periods. During this phase energy levels might slump. However, progesterone might have a calming and happy effect on you, perk. Consider foods high in vitamin B and avoid greasy, processed, sugary food and alcohol here as we prepare for menstruation.
General rule of thumb: Your cycle begins on the first day you bleed and ends the first day you bleed. A short cycle is less than every 21 days is considered short or early. A long cycle is 35 or more days between periods. A 28 day cycle is average. Dysregulation/ dysfunction: too little blood, too much blood, pain, PMS, clots, no period.
Acupuncture is incredibly beneficial in the regulation of menstrual cycles, we see it work all the time in our practice! We see young patients who have just begun their cycle, all the way thru to those experiencing perimenopause/menopause. We have helped patients wanting to get pregnant but have gone years without a cycle. Cramps, pain, thick/thin blood, and short/long cycles are commonly addressed through acupuncture. There is no exact treatment plan/time, as each person is an unique individual; however, after only a few sessions we will have a better idea how well Acupuncture is working for your particular case.
If you are curious with questions, or want to experience the benefits of Acupuncture, feel free to reach out to me (Gwen) at Chiropractic Health and Acupuncture in Frisco! 970-668-3299
Gwen N. Rudy, MSOM, L.Ac.