What causes scanty menstrual flow and breast pain?
Sep 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
Light menstrual flow and breast tenderness may be caused by physiological changes, endocrine disorders, ovarian insufficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or other factors. Patients can receive symptomatic treatment based on the specific underlying cause. If symptoms such as light menstrual flow and breast tenderness occur, avoid consuming irritating foods and promptly undergo examinations including pelvic ultrasound, blood HCG, and a six-item sex hormone panel.
Generally, light menstrual flow and breast tenderness may be caused by physiological changes, endocrine disorders, ovarian insufficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or endometriosis. Patients can receive symptomatic treatment based on the specific underlying cause. The details are as follows:
1. Physiological causes
Light menstrual flow may occur at the beginning of menstruation due to the endometrium not having shed extensively yet; the flow usually increases gradually over time. Breast tenderness is often related to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle and is considered a normal phenomenon.
2. Endocrine disorders
Light menstrual flow and breast tenderness may also result from endocrine imbalances. Hormonal disturbances in the body can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and lead to reduced menstrual flow, as well as cause breast discomfort, particularly noticeable before menstruation. A sex hormone panel (six-item test) should be performed, and under medical guidance, medications such as progesterone capsules or Yimucao granules may be used to regulate the menstrual cycle.
3. Ovarian insufficiency
Ovarian insufficiency prevents eggs from maturing normally, which may lead to decreased menstrual flow. Breast tenderness may be associated with changes in estrogen levels. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions and use medications such as diethylstilbestrol tablets or estradiol benzoate injection for treatment.
4. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
A common condition affecting ovarian function, often characterized by irregular menstrual cycles and reduced menstrual flow. Patients are advised to follow medical recommendations and use medications such as ethinylestradiol cyproterone acetate tablets or clomiphene citrate capsules for treatment.
5. Endometriosis
A disorder in which endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, commonly causing reduced and irregular menstrual flow. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance and use medications such as Guizhi Fuling capsules or Sanjie Zhentong capsules for treatment.
If symptoms of light menstrual flow and breast tenderness occur, avoid consuming irritating foods and promptly undergo examinations such as pelvic ultrasound, blood HCG, and sex hormone panels to identify the cause and initiate appropriate management and improvement.
