Scanty menstruation is called Hypomenorrhea and in some cases may be considered as Amenorrhea. This condition can be caused by several factors, some physiological, some pathological and some psychological.

Physiologically speaking, it can occur during the extremes of reproductive life (immediately after puberty or just before menopause.

Pathologically, there are many potential causes, such as:

• Being severely underweight
• Hormonal problems
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Hyperinsulinemia
  • Hyperprolactinemia
  • PCOS
• Diabetes
• Hypogonadism
• Asherman’s Syndrome

Its best to get a proper diagnosis from a medical doctor and follow through with the treatment of that specific problem.

Psychologically, stress, depression, anxiety, and several other conditions, can result in this issue. Why? All these psychological conditions involve hormones (Serotonin, Glutamate, Cortisol, etc) and these hormones affect overall neuro-chemistry including the glands that secrete the hormones (Follicle Stimulating Hormone, Luteinizing Hormone, etc) which regulate menstruation. When these glands start to develop irregularities as a result of mental tension, their physiological functions become problematic and can result in improper production of these hormones.

If you are suffering from any of the conditions mentioned above, please consult a doctor.

In order to correct this, we have to get the hormones (endocrine system) regulated as well as the induce menstruation by increasing circulation to the reproductive organs. We must ensure that the hormones are being formed correctly by giving herbs that rejuvenate the reproductive system, nervous system and endocrine system.

Evidence-Based Remedies

In order to correctly address this issue, it is very important to know what the underlying causative factors are and to correct that problem.

Hyperprolactinemia

• Chasteberry is a popular remedy that is commonly used for menstrual disorders including elevated prolactin levels (see study)
• Chamomile has also been found to reduce prolactin in cases of idiopathic hyperprolactinemia (see study)

Hyperinsulinemia

• Inositol is a common remedy for scanty periods related to PCOS and hyperinsulinemia (see study)

PCOS

• Black Seed resulted in an increase from mild menstruation to moderate menstruation in individuals with PCOS (see study)
• Inositol, as mentioned earlier, has been found to be highly effective for improving the symptoms of PCOS as well as enhanced insulin activity, and increased aromatase-mediated hormone conversion (see study)

Hypothyroidism -> Read this article

Stimulate Menstruation

Some cases may be more related to functioning of the reproductive system itself. In these cases, additional support may be needed to stimulate menstruation. Emmenagogue herbs and foods can help with this.

Evidence-Based Remedies

• Dill has been found to induce menstrual bleeding in amenorrhea and oligomenorrhea (see study)
• Tamarind Root is a popular home remedy that has also been used in clinical research and found to induce menstrual bleeding (see study)

General Home Remedies

– Parsley contains apiol and myristicin which are known to stimulate uterine contractions.

Parsley tea can be used, or it can be used whole and even added to smoothies. A general dose is 2 grams, 3 times a day.

– A cup of ginger and fennel tea, with some honey is a good remedy to initiate menstruation. Consume this twice a day.

– Aloe Vera is known to induce menstruation, as well as regulate it. It should always be administered with a carminative like ginger or turmeric, to avoid gripping pain. Speak to an Ayurvedic doctor about the correct dose for you.

– A teaspoon of Cumin seeds, can initiate movement by inducing peristalsis and proper induction of downwards movements. Take this once a day.

– Turmeric is known to induce menstruation due to its hot nature. A cup of Turmeric tea or a glass of milk mixed with ½ teaspoon turmeric powder can help induce menstruation. (this can be harmful if used excessively or if you have history of internal hemorrhaging and/or liver problems.)

– Safflower and Rose Flower tea can also aid in delayed menstruation.

External Stimulation

Gently massaging with warm sesame oil (Black sesame seed oil), over the lower abdominal/pelvic region, will help to induce the flow of blood to the area. Sesame oil is warming and counteracts pain and other effects of improper nervous impulses.

After massaging with oil, the application of heat (fomentation) is advised. Using a hot water bottle, or applying a towel (which has been dipped in hot water) over the massaged region. This application of heat can also be done whenever there is pain or discomfort.

Exercise 

Yoga Therapy has been found to improve menstrual irregularities in PCOS (see study)

Practicing the yogic pose known as “Wind Relieving Pose” or “Pavanmuktasana” should be done regularly, to aid in regulating the function of the lower abdominal organs. (This pose may also aid in problems related to gas, constipation, and weak digestion)

(NOTE: This pose is contraindicated in High Blood Pressure, Hernia, Slipped Disc, Acidity, Pregnancy, during menstruation, and a few other conditions. Yogic practices should be done under the guidance of an experienced yoga practitioner)

Any type of heavy duty exercise like weight lifting, or even simply jogging is enough to induce your period, but be careful with this as it can have a negative impact on hormones.

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(Always use medicinal herbs under the supervision of a doctor)

by Dr. Nishal R.
Copyright © 2017