What Causes Prolonged Menstruation?
Mar 31, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cao Ting
Introduction
Prolonged menstruation is most likely caused by spleen and kidney deficiency, leading to blood stasis and blood heat, which impairs normal blood circulation. Additionally, other potential contributing factors include endocrine disorders, ovarian dysfunction, gynecological inflammation, emotional stress, medication effects, or environmental changes—all of which may result in an extended menstrual cycle. It is recommended to visit a hospital for a pelvic ultrasound and a panel of six hormone tests to establish a definitive diagnosis.
A typical menstrual cycle in healthy women lasts approximately 28 days. However, poor lifestyle habits—such as chronic sleep deprivation—can disrupt menstrual regularity, leading to delayed periods or prolonged menstruation, both of which may adversely affect a woman’s health. So, what causes abnormally prolonged menstrual bleeding?
What Causes Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding?
Prolonged menstruation is often associated with spleen- and kidney-deficiency patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), resulting in blood stasis and blood-heat, thereby impairing normal blood circulation. Additionally, it may stem from endocrine imbalances, ovarian dysfunction, gynecological inflammation, emotional stress, medication effects, or environmental changes—all of which can extend the menstrual cycle. To clarify the underlying cause, patients are advised to undergo pelvic ultrasound and a panel of six key hormone tests at a hospital.
If diagnostic imaging and laboratory tests reveal no structural abnormalities, the prolonged bleeding may be classified as dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB)—a condition characterized by abnormal uterine bleeding in the absence of identifiable organic pathology in the internal or external genitalia. DUB is commonly linked to hormonal imbalances. Alternatively, conditions such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids may also contribute. A targeted treatment plan should therefore be developed based on the individual’s specific symptoms.
Women experiencing menstrual irregularities should seek prompt medical evaluation. Additionally, maintaining proper perineal hygiene—including frequent changing of undergarments—is essential to prevent bacterial overgrowth and subsequent infections such as bacterial vaginosis or vulvovaginal candidiasis. We hope this information is helpful to you.
