Menopause is a natural transition in life, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. This phase brings about physical changes and hormonal fluctuations that can lead to various discomforts and symptoms. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach through herbal remedies and acupuncture to help you navigate this period smoothly, alleviate symptoms, and potentially delay early menopause.
Real Case: 45-Year-Old Patient Regains Menstrual Cycle & Delays Menopause with Chinese Medicine
Ms. Luo: “I haven’t had my period for three months, and this year, my flow has been getting lighter—it only lasts two or three days…”
This was the concern expressed by Ms. Luo, a 45-year-old patient. Previously, she had regular menstrual cycles lasting 5-6 days. However, over the past year, her flow had gradually decreased, lasting only 2-3 days, and eventually stopped completely for three months. Suspecting the onset of menopause, Ms. Luo consulted a gynecologist. Blood tests revealed elevated FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) levels at 82 mIU/ml (normal for reproductive-age women is <30), indicating declining ovarian function and the onset of menopause.
TCM Diagnosis:
After a thorough assessment, I noted that while menopause at 45 is considered normal, Ms. Luo’s weak digestive function, sluggish bowel movements, lean physique, and susceptibility to dizziness and fatigue indicated an underlying constitutional deficiency. This weakness likely contributed to her early menopause. Through holistic treatment aimed at replenishing Qi and Blood, many women can improve their overall health and potentially delay menopause.
Treatment & Results:
I prescribed a customized herbal formula focused on strengthening the Spleen and Kidneys, supplemented with moxibustion therapy to warm the body, improve circulation, and boost energy—especially beneficial given Ms. Luo’s cold sensitivity and frequent dizziness.
Within just one week of treatment, Ms. Luo reported significant improvements in digestion and relief from bloating. She continued with a combined regimen of herbal medicine and moxibustion twice a month. After nearly two months, her menstrual cycle returned—with bright red blood lasting four days. Ms. Luo was both surprised and delighted with the outcome.
Follow-Up & Long-Term Benefits:
Encouraged by the improvements in her digestion, sleep quality, and overall well-being, Ms. Luo decided to continue with regular TCM maintenance. With ongoing herbal therapy and moxibustion sessions twice monthly, she has since maintained a regular menstrual cycle with healthy flow each month.
What Age Does Menopause Begin?
Menopause, marking the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles, is clinically confirmed when a woman has had no period for 12 consecutive months. For most women, this natural transition occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age being around 49. However, the exact timing can vary significantly from person to person due to factors like genetics, diet, lifestyle, reproductive history, and surgery.
How Do You Know When Menopause is Starting? Recognizing the Symptoms
As menopause approaches (the perimenopausal stage), ovarian function gradually declines, leading to irregular ovulation. This causes fluctuating hormone levels, which can trigger a variety of physical and emotional symptoms, including:
- Irregular Periods: Your cycle may become shorter, longer, or unpredictable.
- Stop of Menstruation: Periods eventually stop completely.
- Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Sudden, intense feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating.
- Decreased Libido: A reduced interest in sexual activity.
- Bone Density Loss: Declining estrogen levels can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
- Mood Swings: Increased irritability, anxiety, or emotional volatility.
- Vaginal Dryness: Discomfort during intercourse due to reduced natural lubrication.
A blood test can also provide clarity. An FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) level consistently higher than 30 mIU/ml, coupled with declining estrogen, typically indicates that a woman is in menopause.
A Natural Path to Balance: How Chinese Medicine(TCM) Eases Menopausal Symptoms
Traditional Chinese Medicine views menopause as a natural shift in the body’s fundamental balance of Yin and Yang. Symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia are often signs of a Yin deficiency, which fails to “anchor” the body’s Yang energy, leading to heat-like symptoms. TCM aims to restore this balance and support the body through this transition.
1. Herbal Medicine for Menopause Relief
A TCM practitioner will create a personalized herbal formula based on your specific constitution and symptoms. Common herbs used to nourish the body, balance Yin and Yang, and support the Kidneys and Liver include:
- Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis): To nourish blood and promote circulation.
- Bai Shao (White Peony Root): To soothe the liver and help regulate menses.
- Chuan Xiong (Ligusticum Root): To invigorate blood flow.
Long-term herbal therapy can effectively alleviate discomforts like hot flashes and night sweats while improving overall vitality.
2. Acupuncture for Holistic Symptom Management
Acupuncture is a powerful tool for managing menopausal symptoms. By inserting fine needles into specific points, it helps to:
- Regulate Qi (vital energy) and blood flow.
- Restore the balance between Yin and Yang.
- Reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes and night sweats.
- Improve sleep quality and stabilize mood.
This natural and holistic approach can significantly enhance your well-being and help you navigate menopause with greater ease and comfort.
Early Menopause before the age of 40? What is Primary Ovarian Insufficiency(POI)?
Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) occurs when a woman’s ovaries begin to lose their normal function before the age of 40. This can lead to irregular periods or a complete stop of menstruation.
The decline in estrogen levels that defines POI can have significant effects on a woman’s health and well-being, including:
- Sexual Health: Decreased libido and vaginal dryness.
- Bone Health: Reduced calcium absorption, leading to a higher risk of osteoporosis.
- Heart Health: An increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Skin Changes: Skin may become drier and lose elasticity.
These symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life. The good news is that with proper care and lifestyle adjustments, these effects can be managed and improved.
How Chinese Medicine(TCM) Approaches Primary Ovarian Insufficiency(POI) and restore menstruation?
Traditional Chinese Medicine does not view POI as an irreversible condition. Without the use of external hormones medication, instead, it aims to nourish the body’s foundational energy to support and potentially restore ovarian function. The primary TCM goal is to tonify the Kidneys and Liver, replenish Qi and Blood, and regulate the Chong and Ren Meridians, which govern reproductive health.
1. Customized Herbal Medicine
A TCM practitioner will design a personalized herbal formula based on your unique constitution and symptom pattern. Commonly used herbs to nourish blood, regulate the menses, and support Yin include:
- Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica): To nourish and invigorate Blood.
- Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia Root): To tonify Blood and nourish Yin.
- Bai Shao (White Peony Root): To soothe the Liver and help regulate menstruation.
These formulas work synergistically to help regulate the endocrine system and create a healthier internal environment for ovarian function.
2. Acupuncture and Moxibustion Therapies
- Acupuncture: By stimulating specific points, acupuncture helps to unblock meridians, regulate the flow of Qi and Blood, and balance hormones. It can directly address menstrual irregularities and associated symptoms.
- Moxibustion: This technique involves burning the herb mugwort near the skin to warm and energize the body. It is particularly beneficial for “warming the uterus”, dispelling cold, and strengthening the body’s vital energy (Yang Qi), which is crucial for reproductive health.
3. Dietary Support with TCM Principles
Nutrition plays a vital role. We recommend incorporating foods that naturally build blood and nourish Yin, such as:
- Goji Berries (Gou Qi Zi)
- Okra
- Chinese Yam (Shan Yao)
- Black Sesame Seeds
It’s also advisable to reduce the intake of spicy, greasy, and inflammtory foods.
Ready to find your balance? If you’re experiencing perimenopausal or menopausal symptoms, consider consulting a qualified TCM practitioner to explore a personalized and holistic path to wellness.
