How to Maintain Good Health Before and During the Period
In Western society the monthly periods experienced by women are not looked upon with such importance as they are in Eastern countries.
Gynaecological problems and abnormal periods are commonplace in Australia with many women unaware that they are experiencing abnormal periods.
In Chinese Medicine abnormal periods are said to be:
- Pain before and during menstruation
- Blood clots in the period
- A cycle which lasts longer than 32 days
- A cycle shorter than 26 days
- Very heavy or very light bleeding
- Bleeding during the middle of the cycle
- Full breasts before the period
- Bloating before the period
- Pre-menstrual tension (PMT)
Some lifestyle changes during this time can assist in making a healthy period and also prevent any illness associated with menstruation. Following are some hints on what you can do, or not do, to maintain good health whilst having your period:
Eat foods which nourish the blood, such as beef, chicken, carrots, spinach, peanuts, tomato, beetroot, red dates.
Avoid eating cold foods or drinking cold liquids during this time as these can cause painful periods.
Avoid eating sour foods which can cause the period to stop prematurely. Eg. yoghurt, vinegar, oranges, grapefruit.
Avoid sexual intercourse during this time to prevent the stagnation of Qi and blood in the uterus.
Refrain from any lifting during or directly after the period as it can cause sinking Qi. Eg. prolapse of the uterus, incontinence of urine.
Avoid exposure to cold or dampness, like swimming, as this can cause cold in the uterus and painful periods.
Try to do as little work and exercise as possible to prevent weakening of the Kidney Qi or sinking Qi which can cause prolapse of the uterus or incontinence or urine.
If you would like help in regulating your periods, please make an appointment to see a TCM practitioner.
