Menorrhagia

Question

For the past six months, my periods have been out of control. I used to have normal cycles, lasting 4-5 days with moderate flow. But recently, it has become a nightmare. The bleeding is so heavy that I need to change pads every hour, sometimes even sooner. It lasts more than a week, and I feel drained all the time. Last month, I even passed large clots, which really scared me.

At first, I thought it was just stress or diet-related, but it’s not getting better. I visited a gynecologist, and she mentioned menorrhagia, saying it could be due to hormonal imbalance, fibroids, or even issues like thyroid dysfunction. My hemoglobin levels dropped because of excessive blood loss, and I constantly feel weak and dizzy. I also have cramps that feel like stabbing pain in my lower abdomen.

I don’t want to depend on hormonal pills or other medicines for a long time. I believe in natural healing, so I wanted to ask if Ayurveda has any treatment for menorrhagia. Are there herbs or specific Ayurvedic formulations that can help regulate excessive bleeding? I’ve heard of Ashoka and Lodhra being useful—do they really work?

Also, could my eating habits be making it worse? I mostly eat spicy and salty foods, and I drink a lot of coffee. Could this be affecting my cycle? Are there any specific Ayurvedic dietary recommendations for managing menorrhagia?

I also noticed that my stress levels have been high lately, and I wonder if that could be playing a role. Would practices like yoga, meditation, or specific Ayurvedic therapies help balance my hormones and reduce the intensity of my bleeding?

I’m desperate to find a natural way to manage this before my doctor forces me to take strong medications. Please suggest any lifestyle changes, Ayurvedic remedies, or treatments that can help control menorrhagia and improve my overall menstrual health.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Menorrhagia, or excessive menstrual bleeding, is often linked to Pitta and Vata imbalances in Ayurveda, affecting blood tissues (Rakta Dhatu) and reproductive energy (Apana Vayu). To regulate heavy bleeding, cooling and strengthening herbs like Ashoka, Lodhra, and Shatavari are highly beneficial. Ashokarishta, an Ayurvedic tonic, helps tone the uterus and reduce excessive flow, while Lodhra powder balances hormones. Praval Pishti (coral calcium) is another useful remedy for cooling Pitta and supporting blood health. These herbs, taken under proper guidance, can gradually restore balance without the need for hormonal medications.

Diet plays a crucial role in managing menorrhagia. Spicy, salty, and fried foods should be avoided, as they increase Pitta and worsen bleeding. Instead, focus on cooling, iron-rich foods like pomegranates, dates, coconut water, and leafy greens to replenish lost blood. Coriander seed tea (boiling 1 tsp coriander seeds in water) is an effective home remedy for regulating menstrual flow. Reducing caffeine and processed sugars can also help stabilize hormonal fluctuations. Hydration and consuming ghee, almonds, and warm milk with Shatavari support overall reproductive health.

Lifestyle adjustments such as yoga, pranayama, and stress management techniques are essential. Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose) and Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclined Bound Angle Pose) help regulate Apana Vayu, while Sheetali Pranayama cools excess Pitta. Daily Abhyanga (self-massage) with cooling oils like Brahmi or coconut oil calms Vata and improves circulation. If the issue persists due to underlying causes like fibroids, an Ayurvedic detox (Panchakarma) under expert guidance may be recommended. With consistent natural remedies and lifestyle changes, menorrhagia can be effectively managed without long-term medication dependency.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

In Ayurveda, menorrhagia is often linked to an imbalance in *Pitta* and *Vata*, leading to excessive heat, inflammation, and irregularities in the menstrual cycle. Herbs like *Ashoka* and *Lodhra* are indeed beneficial for regulating heavy bleeding and toning the uterus, helping to reduce inflammation and promote a more balanced flow. Additionally, *Shatavari* and *Guduchi* can help nourish and strengthen the reproductive system while supporting overall vitality. Diet plays a crucial role, so reducing spicy, salty, and overly stimulating foods like coffee is important, as they can aggravate *Pitta* and worsen bleeding. Instead, focus on cooling, hydrating foods like leafy greens, fruits, and whole grains. Incorporating more *Kapha*-balancing foods such as ghee and rice can help soothe and stabilize the body. Managing stress is key, as it can disturb the hormonal balance, so practices like yoga (particularly *Supta Baddha Konasana* or gentle inversions) and meditation can help calm the mind and balance hormones. Panchakarma therapies, such as *Uttara Basti* (medicated vaginal therapy) or *Abhyanga* (oil massage), may also be helpful in detoxifying and restoring balance. By incorporating these Ayurvedic remedies and lifestyle changes, you can help manage the symptoms of menorrhagia naturally and support overall menstrual health.

Menorrhagia - #17506

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