What is the reason for scanty and dark menstruation?

Low menstrual flow and dark color may be related to endocrine disorders, endometrial damage, insufficient Qi and blood, polycystic ovary syndrome, intrauterine adhesions and other factors. Low and dark menstrual flow usually manifests as shortened menstrual periods and dark red or black menstrual blood, which may be accompanied by dysmenorrhea or cycle disorders.

1. Endocrine disorders

Long-term mental stress, excessive dieting, or obesity may lead to hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis dysfunction. Insufficient estrogen secretion will limit endometrial proliferation, reduce menstrual blood volume and prolong oxidation time during shedding. You can use estradiol valerate tablets, progesterone capsules and other drugs as directed by your doctor to regulate the cycle, and use Bazhen Yimu Pills to improve qi and blood circulation.

2. Endometrial damage

Multiple abortions, dilation and curettage surgeries, or severe uterine infection may damage the basal layer of the endometrium. The thinning of the endometrium will lead to reduced menstrual bleeding, and the menstrual blood accumulated in the uterine cavity will oxidize and turn black. It is recommended to evaluate the endometrial status through hysteroscopy and use estradiol gel to promote endometrial repair if necessary.

3. Insufficient Qi and blood

Anemia, malnutrition, or chronic wasting disease may cause Qi and blood deficiency. Weak circulation of Qi and blood will cause menstrual blood to be poorly discharged and remain in the body to form blood clots. You can take Chinese patent medicines such as compound donkey-hide gelatin and Wuji Baifeng Pills, along with iron-rich foods such as pork liver and red dates.

4. Polycystic ovary syndrome

Excessive androgen levels can inhibit follicular development and lead to anovulatory menstruation. The endometrium is stimulated by a single estrogen for a long time and shows a small amount of dark menstrual blood when it is shed. It is necessary to regulate hormones through ethinyl estradiol and cyproterone tablets, and improve insulin resistance with metformin tablets.

5. Uterine adhesions

Adhesions caused by uterine surgery or infection can reduce the endometrial area. Menstrual blood cannot be discharged smoothly and becomes darker in color after being accumulated in the uterine cavity and oxidized. Mild adhesions can be treated by hysteroscopic separation, and an IUD is placed after surgery to prevent recurrence of adhesions.

You should keep your abdomen warm every day and avoid cold and raw foods. You can drink brown sugar ginger tea during menstruation to promote blood circulation. Maintain a regular schedule and moderate exercise, and record menstrual cycles and changes in menstrual flow every month. If symptoms persist for more than 3 months or are accompanied by severe abdominal pain, gynecological ultrasound and six sex hormone tests must be performed promptly. Patients with anemia should increase their intake of iron-rich foods such as animal liver and spinach, and supplement ferrous succinate tablets if necessary.