Short Period Can Affect Your Fertility : Regular Period With Chinese Medicine
For many individuals and couples, the journey to parenthood can be both exciting and challenging. While numerous factors can influence fertility, one that is often overlooked is the length and regularity of the menstrual cycle.
Short period and fertility can be closely related, shortened menstrual cycle can raise concerns about a woman’s reproductive health and significantly reduce her chances of conception. Research has shown that having a 26-day or less menstrual cycle decreases the chances of conception by over 50%.
This article will discuss how differing lengths of menstrual cycle and fertility are related and how Chinese medicine, with its centuries-old wisdom and holistic approach to health, provides a promising avenue for addressing these issues and restoring harmony to the reproductive system.
A Window Into Fertility : How Does A Menstrual Cycle Affect Fertility?
A menstrual cycle is defined as the cyclical changing of hormones that females experience every month. This cycle is separated into four phases:
- Menstruation Phase (Blood)
- Follicular Phase (Yin)
- Ovulation Phase (Yang)
- Luteal Phase (Yang, Qi)
The first half of the menstrual cycle, which includes menstruation and the follicular phase, this phase is associated with the nourishment of Blood and Yin, which are essential for a healthy uterine lining and the development of a mature egg.
The second half of the menstrual cycle, which includes ovulation and the luteal phase, is considered the Yang phase in Chinese medicine. Ovulation is the most important part of the menstrual cycle when your goal is to become pregnant.
Ovulation is the time during your cycle when the ovaries release an egg to be potentially fertilized, thus leading to pregnancy. Ovulation is seen as a moment when the body’s Kidney essence is at its highest. It is considered the source of reproductive potential in Chinese medicine.
A strong and well-nourished Kidney essence is essential for successful ovulation and fertility. Therefore, infrequent or irregular ovulation simply makes it more difficult to get pregnant, however, it is not impossible.
What Does The Research Say About Short Period and Fertility?
A study from researchers at Harvard University shows that shorter menstrual cycles that feature premature or delayed bleeding are linked to lower fertility. This study shows that those who experience normal cycles can also experience higher fertility and may have fewer difficulties with conception.
Another study conducted by researchers at the Boston University School of Public Health has shown that women experiencing shorter-than-normal menstrual cycles may experience fertility struggles. It has been shown that a short period and fertility struggles are linked together for many women.
As mentioned previously, the menstrual cycle is defined by a series of different hormonal changes and shifts within the body. If a cycle is irregular or significantly shorter than normal, this can throw off the balance of hormones in the body and can negatively impact fertility.
However, it is important to note that even if your cycle is short, you can still get pregnant. The most important fertility stage, ovulation, is what truly determines your chances of becoming pregnant.
How Short Period and Fertility Are Related According To Chinese Medicine
In Chinese medicine, a short menstrual cycle is seen as a potential indicator of underlying imbalances in the body that can affect fertility. Chinese medicine places great importance on regular menstrual cycle as it is believed to reflect the overall state of a woman’s health and fertility.
Blood and Yin Deficiency
A short menstrual cycle may not provide enough time for nourishment of Blood and Yin, which are essential for a healthy uterine lining and the development of a mature egg, potentially resulting in a less receptive uterine environment and reduced egg quality.
Yang Dominance and Imbalance
A short menstrual cycle may lead to an imbalance with an excessive Yang. This Yang dominance can disrupt the harmonious interaction between Yin and Yang required for a healthy cycle and optimal fertility.
Cold or Dampness Accumulation
Cold has a constricting and contracting quality, and dampness is often associated with stagnation. When these qualities are in excess, they can constrict blood vessels and inhibit the smooth flow of Blood. This reduced circulation can result in a shortened duration of menstruation, as the uterine lining may not receive sufficient nourishment to maintain a longer period.
Hormonal Imbalances
Chinese medicine recognises the importance of the Kidney and Liver systems in regulating the menstrual cycle and fertility. A short cycle can be a sign of imbalances in these systems, affecting the smooth flow of Qi and Blood and leading to hormonal irregularities that can hinder conception.
Stress and Emotional Impact
Emotional factors like including stress are can play a significant role in menstrual cycle irregularities according to Chinese medicine. A short cycle can be a result of emotional stress, and in turn, the emotional distress caused by fertility struggles can further exacerbate the imbalance.
How to Regulate Menstrual Cycle With Chinese Medicine And Improve Fertility
The main goal of regulating a menstrual cycle with Chinese Medicine is to ensure regular ovulation and balance the body’s hormones to promote a regular menstrual cycle and increase fertility.
Acupuncture For Menstrual Cycle and Fertility
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine treatment that can help to combat struggles with infertility and can help to regulate an irregular menstrual cycle. A study from researcher Zeng Zhaoyan, published in 2014 with China Medicine and Pharmacy have shown that acupuncture can remove blockages and promote the smooth flow of Qi and blood. This treatment can also influence the endocrine system, regulate hormone production and promote healthy menstrual cycle.
Acupuncture can also improve irregular periods and minimise polycystic ovary syndrome. A study from Kristen Sparrow MD at Stanford University shows that this treatment can also reduce stress which is shown to improve fertility.
Acupuncture can enhance blood circulation to the reproductive organs, including the ovaries and uterus. Improved blood flow can support the development of healthy follicles, facilitate ovulation, and create a more conducive environment for implantation.
Herbal Supplements For Short Period and Fertility
Some herbs such as Dong Quai and Chaste Tree Berry have also been shown to improve irregular menstrual cycles. A study conducted by Jia Guo in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine illustrated that Dong Quai can help to improve egg and sperm health to improve fertility. With their ability to regulate cycles, they are also able to improve fertility by bringing the body into balance.
Related: Dong Quai For Fertility
Recommended Supplements for Short Period and Fertility
Menstro SupportÂ
Menstrual Maintenance by GinSen are supplements for regulating the menstrual cycle naturally. Ideal for irregular periods – absent periods, heavy/light period flow, period clotting and balancing hormones. It also supports the well-being of female fertility organs to help promote fertility.
Diet And Lifestyle Changes For Short Period and Fertility
In Chinese medicine, dietary recommendations to improve short menstrual periods focus on nourishing the Blood, supporting Yin, and addressing underlying imbalances that may be causing the short cycles.
Warm Nourishing Foods: Warm and cooked foods are generally recommended to counteract cold and dampness, which can contribute to short menstrual cycles. Incorporate warm soups, stews, and cooked grains into your diet. Avoid excessive consumption of cold and raw foods, as they may exacerbate cold conditions.
Iron-Rich Foods: Iron is essential for healthy Blood production. Include iron-rich foods such as lean meats, dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, lentils, beans in your diet to support Blood nourishment.
Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Excessive caffeine and spicy foods can create heat and Yang in the body, potentially exacerbating short menstrual cycles. Limit your intake of coffee, strong teas, and spicy foods.
Remember that dietary changes may take time to show noticeable effects on menstrual cycle length, and consistency is key. It’s also important to work with a qualified TCM practitioner who can provide a personalised assessment of your condition, which is why at GinSen we offer free consultation. Speak to an expert today.
For more information about how Chinese Medicine can help you to regulate menstrual cycle and improve fertility, book your free consultation with our Chinese Medicine experts today
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We can’t guarantee the treatment result, as the symptoms of conditions are unpredictable and vary greatly from person to person. The treatment length and recovery time also varies for individual. Please visit our clinics website: GinSen where a specialists will discuss your care and provide a consultation, and the treatment will be designed to meet your individual needs.
