It might seem puzzling at first, but there’s an intriguing connection between amenorrhea (the absence of menstruation) and constipation. Especially among those suffering from chronic or habitual constipation, an increased occurrence of menstrual disruptions, including prolonged delays or complete absence of periods, has been observed.
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Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) shines a unique light on this relationship. According to TCM, the stomach and large intestine are part of the Yangming 陽明 meridian, and the Chong meridian沖脈, vital for regulating the twelve channels’ Qi and blood, belongs to this same category. The Chong meridian 沖脈, often termed the ‘Sea of Blood 血海,’ is intrinsically linked to reproductive functions. For menstruation to occur regularly, the Chong 沖脈 and Ren 任脈 meridians must be active and full.
When the Yangming 陽明 experiences heat or there’s a Yin fluid deficiency, symptoms such as thirst and constipation may manifest. Over time, this heat impacts the Chong meridian 沖脈, draining the Yin blood. As women heavily rely on blood for physiological processes, including menstruation, pregnancy, and lactation, they are more vulnerable to symptoms of blood deficiency than men. If Yangming’s heat 陽明之熱 influences the Chong meridian 沖脈 significantly, it can lead to thick, scarce menstrual flow, or even complete menstrual cessation (amenorrhea). This connection explains why TCM practitioners prioritize understanding a patient’s dietary and bowel habits when treating amenorrhea. If they identify constipation with amenorrhea, regulating bowel movements becomes a critical aspect of the treatment.
Dr. Chai Songyan 柴嵩岩, a renowned TCM gynecologist, highlighted the Yangming 陽明 meridian’s role in treating amenorrhea. She introduced the “Two Yang Causes Disease” theory 二陽致病理論, linking gynecological conditions with the Yangming channel. Her belief was that heat and toxins from Yangming could invade the Chong meridian, causing disruptions in menstruation. Thus, in her treatments, Dr. Chai frequently targeted the Yangming meridian to address amenorrhea.
To simplify, imagine a reservoir: for it to irrigate downstream fields, it must be full. If it’s empty, there’s no water for irrigation. Similarly, when the Yangming is depleted, it can lead to menstrual disruptions like amenorrhea.
In clinical settings, TCM practitioners frequently inquire about patients’ bowel habits, as these can reflect the Qi and blood conditions of the patient’s internal organs, influencing treatment decisions. Thus, accurate reporting of bowel conditions by patients is paramount.
For individuals grappling with amenorrhea and constipation, it’s crucial to focus on restoring gut health. A robust digestive system ensures the plentiful supply of Qi and blood, which in turn supports regular menstruation. However, it’s essential to understand that treating such chronic conditions requires time, often spanning between three to six months.
The association between amenorrhea and the Yangming channel emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet and regular physical activity for all women. Excessive consumption of fatty or spicy foods can be detrimental to the digestive system. Meanwhile, consistent exercise promotes better digestion, facilitating improved bowel movements and metabolic processes.
An ancient Chinese saying goes, “Illnesses in old age often originate from youthful habits.” Most health issues are an accumulation of years of poor dietary and lifestyle choices. For genuine healing, one must not only rely on medication but also undergo fundamental lifestyle changes. By adopting and maintaining a healthful lifestyle, we ensure a more robust overall health and fewer health challenges.
In summary, while the direct link between amenorrhea and constipation might not be evident in contemporary medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine offers profound insights into our body’s interconnected systems, underlining the importance of comprehensive health care.
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