Does moxibustion cause delayed menstruation?
Sep 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, whether moxibustion can delay menstruation depends on the timing of the moxibustion, individual constitution, and the method used. Moxibustion performed outside of the menstrual period on routine health-maintaining acupoints, and suited to the individual's constitution, typically does not cause menstrual delay. However, performing moxibustion during the menstrual period or applying it incorrectly may potentially lead to delayed menstruation. To avoid adverse effects of moxibustion on menstruation, it is recommended to avoid moxibustion during the menstrual period.
Generally speaking, whether moxibustion can delay menstruation needs to be determined based on the timing of the moxibustion, individual constitution, and the method used. Moxibustion performed outside the menstrual period on regular health-maintaining acupoints, and suited to one's constitution, typically won't delay menstruation. However, if performed during the menstrual period or improperly, it may cause menstrual delay. The detailed analysis is as follows:
If moxibustion is conducted outside the menstrual period, targeting commonly used health-maintaining acupoints such as Guanyuan (CV4) and Qihai (CV6), with moderate duration and appropriate temperature, and the individual's constitution is not a sensitive type such as Yin deficiency with internal heat, then moxibustion can help warm and unblock the meridians and regulate qi and blood, without disturbing endocrine stability, thus not causing menstrual delay.
However, performing moxibustion during the menstrual period—especially on acupoints in the waist and abdominal area—or applying moxibustion for excessive durations or at excessively high temperatures may affect the normal shedding rhythm of the endometrium, thereby causing menstrual delay. Some individuals may also experience reduced menstrual flow.
To avoid adverse effects of moxibustion on menstruation, it is recommended to avoid performing moxibustion during the menstrual period, especially on acupoints in the waist and abdominal regions. Prior to moxibustion, individuals should understand their own constitutions and those with Yin deficiency with internal heat or excess internal heat should proceed with caution.
