What causes menstrual periods to not end?
Sep 07, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
"Menstrual period not ending" refers to prolonged or persistent menstruation. This condition may be caused by factors such as high stress, weight changes, consumption of warming foods, hormonal imbalances, or endometritis. It can be managed under a doctor's guidance through general measures, medication, or other treatments. It is recommended to develop healthy lifestyle habits, maintain a proper balance between work and rest, and avoid excessive fatigue, all of which contribute to overall health.
Generally, prolonged menstrual bleeding refers to persistent and excessive menstruation. This condition may be caused by factors such as high stress, weight fluctuations, consumption of warming foods, endocrine disorders, or endometritis. Treatment options, including general management and medication, should be carried out under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. High Stress
Long-term psychological stress or emotional fluctuations may disrupt the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, leading to menstrual irregularities and prolonged bleeding. Learning effective stress management techniques—such as engaging in moderate exercise, practicing meditation or deep breathing—and seeking help from a mental health counselor when necessary can be beneficial.
2. Weight Changes
Rapid changes in body weight alter fat tissue levels, which may lead to unstable estrogen levels and affect the menstrual cycle, resulting in prolonged menstrual bleeding. Maintaining healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and a stable, healthy weight range is recommended.
3. Consumption of Warming Foods
Consuming excessive warming foods during menstruation—such as longan, donkey-hide gelatin (ejiao), durian, etc.—may increase menstrual flow and contribute to prolonged bleeding. It is advisable to adjust the diet by reducing intake of warming foods and increasing water consumption to promote metabolism.
4. Endocrine Disorders
Endocrine imbalances are usually caused by abnormal hormone secretion. Hormonal disturbances can interfere with the normal repair and shedding of the endometrium, leading to prolonged menstrual bleeding. Symptoms may include dull skin, significant mood swings, and weight changes. Treatment may involve medications such as Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan, Wu Ji Bai Feng Wan, or Yi Mu Cao Granules, as prescribed by a doctor.
5. Endometritis
Endometritis is an inflammation of the endometrium caused by infection with pathogens. The inflammation may lead to endometrial congestion, edema, or even necrosis, disrupting normal shedding and repair processes and causing prolonged menstrual bleeding. Symptoms may include lower abdominal pain, increased vaginal discharge, and fever. Patients may be treated with medications such as cefuroxime sodium injection, azithromycin dispersible tablets, or tinidazole injection, as directed by a physician.
It is recommended to develop healthy lifestyle habits, maintain a proper balance between work and rest, and avoid excessive fatigue to support overall health.
