Can you have gua sha during your menstrual period?
Disease description:
This morning when I got up to use the bathroom, I found that my period had started. I was originally planning to go with a friend for gua sha this afternoon. I'm wondering, is it okay to have gua sha during menstruation? Are there any precautions I should take?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. He Haochen
Women are generally advised not to undergo gua sha during menstruation. Although gua sha helps promote blood circulation, remove blood stasis, and support the elimination of stagnant blood during the menstrual period, it may also cause some adverse effects:
1. Gua sha regulates muscle contraction and relaxation and enhances blood circulation around the treated tissues, which may prolong the menstrual period and thereby increase the risk of anemia.
2. Blood vessel dilation during gua sha may lead to subcutaneous bleeding. During menstruation, when clotting function is slightly impaired, this can make hematomas harder to absorb and recover.
3. After gua sha, skin pores remain open; if exposed to cold or chilling influences, it may worsen symptoms such as fatigue and dysmenorrhea during menstruation.
To protect women's health, it is recommended to avoid gua sha during the menstrual period.
