Pre Menstrual Breast Distension in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different pre menstrual breast distension patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Pre menstrual breast distension refers to the swelling and tenderness of the breasts experienced by many women in the days leading up to their menstrual period. This common symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can range from mild discomfort to significant pain, often accompanied by a feeling of fullness and heaviness in the breast tissue.
Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, particularly the increase in estrogen and progesterone, are believed to be the primary cause of this condition, affecting the breasts' ductal system and leading to fluid retention and swelling.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic perspective on pre menstrual breast distension, viewing it as a manifestation of underlying imbalances within the body's energy system, or Qi, and the flow of blood.
According to TCM, this condition is often the result of Qi Stagnation or the accumulation of Heat in the body, which disrupts the natural flow of energy and blood, leading to symptoms like breast distension. Identifying and correcting these imbalances through a combination of herbal medicine, acupuncture, and lifestyle adjustments is central to TCM's approach, aiming to restore harmony and relieve discomfort.
TCM Patterns for Pre Menstrual Breast Distension
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause pre menstrual breast distension
Qi Stagnation
Diagnostic signs
Tight (Jin), Wiry (Xian)
Normal or slightly dark on side with white or yellow coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation
Diagnostic signs
Wiry (Xian)
Normal or slightly red on the sides
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Diagnostic signs
Wiry (Xian)
Red on the sides
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Diagnostic signs
Wiry (Xian)
Red on the sides
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Heat in the Blood
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu)
Red tongue
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Pre Menstrual Breast Distension
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address pre menstrual breast distension