Ariel, June 29, 2023
Menstruation has always been one of the physiological phenomena that women are most concerned about, as it is related to female fertility. Through menstruation, women can also examine their physiological health.
Therefore, any abnormality in menstruation can cause concern among women. We hear women wonder why their menstrual flow is so light in life. Some even suspect it is a symptom of premature ovarian failure. But is that the case? Is a Light Menstrual Flow a Sign of Premature Ovarian Failure?
Causes of Light Menstrual Flow
From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, the causes of light menstrual flow can be due to "deficiency and excess; deficiency often stems from physical weakness, serious illness, chronic illness, blood loss, or dietary fatigue that damages the spleen, or sexual exhaustion that harms the kidneys, leading to a deficiency in the 'sea of blood,' resulting in reduced menstrual flow. Excess conditions often arise from blood stasis, phlegm dampness obstruction, or blockage in the meridians, causing poor blood circulation and reduced menstrual blood" [1]
From the perspective of Western medicine, the causes of a light menstrual flow are often objective factors rather than individual body fat issues of women, including age, weight changes, pregnancy, stress, and current medication intake.
Light Menstrual Flow = Sign of Premature Ovarian Failure?
Indeed, the amount of menstrual flow can reflect our physical condition to a certain extent. However, this also depends on the situation. A menstrual flow between 5ml ~80 ml and a duration of more than three days is considered normal, and there's no need for concern. If there's indeed a change in the menstrual cycle, but the flow and duration fall within the aforementioned range, and examinations reveal normal results and hormone levels, there's no need for worry.
If the menstrual flow is less than 5ml, the period lasts less than three days, and the menstrual cycle is disordered, continuing for several months without relief, it may indicate a disease and a timely medical consultation is necessary. However, this does not necessarily indicate premature ovarian failure, although menstrual irregularity is a symptom of premature ovarian failure.
Medical Advice
When investigating the cause of abnormal menstruation in a hospital, it is advised to conduct an ultrasound, check sex hormones, and assess ovarian reserve capacity. Conditions such as uterine adhesions, premature ovarian failure, and luteal phase defects should be ruled out before treatment is determined.
