Dysmenorrhea - Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis Pattern
TCM differentiation and treatment for dysmenorrhea with Qi
Dysmenorrhea · Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Pelvis
Pattern Overview
Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis is a common pattern in dysmenorrhea,
characterized by **elevated prostaglandin F2α, severe menstrual pain,
dark menstrual blood with clots, and abdominal distension**. The core
pathogenesis is **Liver Qi stagnation leading to Blood stasis in the
uterus**, causing uterine spasm, ischemia, and severe pain.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
menstrual blood with clots, abdominal distension |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
sighing, pain worse with stress |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
hesitant pulse |
| Pathogenesis |
|---|
uterus |
| Etiology |
|---|
lifestyle, cold exposure |
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| Ganshu (BL18) | Lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to T9 |
|---|
of Liver meridian; soothes Liver Qi |
| Taichong (LR3) |
|---|
metatarsals | Source point of Liver meridian; soothes Liver Qi |
| Sanyinjiao (SP6) | 3 cun above the medial malleolus |
|---|
for gynecological conditions; regulates menstruation |
| Diji (SP8) |
|---|
meridian | Xi-Cleft point of Spleen; treats acute menstrual pain |
| Ciliao (BL32) | In the second sacral foramen |
|---|
and pelvic pain |
Clinical Recommendation: Filament needle, reducing method; may
combine with moxibustion on Ciliao to warm the uterus.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Chai Hu Shu Gan San (柴胡疏肝散) + Shi Xiao San
(失笑散)
Composition:
Bupleurum (Chai Hu), White Peony (Bai Shao), Immature Bitter Orange (Zhi
Ke), Chuanxiong (Chuan Xiong), Cyperus (Xiang Fu), Trogopterus Dung (Wu
Ling Zhi), Pollen Typhae (Pu Huang), Licorice (Gan Cao)
Action: Soothes Liver Qi, invigorates blood, resolves stasis, and
relieves pain.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Severe pain | Add Yan Hu Suo, Ru Xiang to relieve pain |
|---|
| Dark blood clots | Add Tao Ren, Hong Hua to invigorate blood |
|---|
| Irritability | Add Zhi Zi, Dan Pi to clear Liver Heat |
|---|
| Abdominal distension | Add Mu Xiang, Sha Ren to regulate Qi |
|---|
Western Mechanism Reference
Elevated prostaglandin F2α causing uterine smooth muscle spasm,
ischemia, and pain, with abnormal hemorheology and microcirculatory
disturbance. Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis corresponds to primary
dysmenorrhea with severe pain, where elevated prostaglandin levels and
uterine ischemia contribute to cramping and pain.
References
1. Gynecology of TCM (New Century 4th Edition) - Dysmenorrhea Pattern
Differentiation.
2. Xiong Jibai Pattern Correspondence: Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis.
3. WHO. (2023). Women's health. World Health Organization.
Explore More
- Find your solution at MendGod.com –
Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for menstrual
health.
- Deepen your knowledge at TcmCIO.com – Full
research papers and clinical case studies on TCM women's health.
Related TCM Patterns for Dysmenorrhea
Last reviewed: June 2026 | Lead author: Dr. Li Wei, DACM | Content updated: Monthly
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any treatment.