deficiency of Yin-Qi and the Empty-Heat may lead to bleeding.
Dysmenorrhoea indicates pain occurring before, during or after menstruation. The pain may
occur in the lower abdomen or sacral region.
From the point of view of Chinese medicine the Liver, Penetrating Vessel and Directing Vessel
are responsible for the physiology of menstruation. For a normal period to occur, Blood must be
abundant and move adequately. Proper movement of Blood relies on the free flow of Liver-Qi.
Four different phases may be identified during each menstrual cycle.
- During menstruation Blood is moving, for which it relies on Liver-Qi and Liver-Blood
- After menstruation Blood and Yin are empty
- During mid-cycle Blood and Yin gradually fill up in the Penetrating and Directing
Vessels - Before menstruation Yang rises to prepare to move Blood during the period. Liver-Qi
moves in preparation to move Blood during the period (see Figure 31.1(535))
Thus, a proper movement of Liver-Qi and Liver-Blood is essential for a pain-free period. If
Liver-Qi stagnates it may cause pain especially before the period, while if Liver-Blood stagnates
it will cause pain during the period. Stagnation is therefore the most important pathological
condition causing dysmenorrhoea.