Acupuncture key signs and symptoms of Liver Qi stagnation in infertility

In acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine treatment of infertility, Liver Qi Stagnation is also one of the most common syndromes that affects fertility.

A deficiency and/or excess state can be present in the individual. In many cases, prolonged stagnation of Liver Qi can lead to an extension of the original Liver Qi stagnation, turning the syndrome to Liver Qi stagnant Heat or Fire.

To begin, let's look at the distinguishing features of Liver Qi stagnation.

Deficiency Syndrome:

• Irregular menstruation, bleeding is scarce, dark in colour and mixed with clots
• Mood dsturbance, such as restlessness, frustration, depression, irritability, emotional volatility, angry outbursts, anger especially prior to menstruation
• Aggravation of symptoms by emotional strain
• Discomfort in the hypochondria and/or chest such as sense of tightness or oppressive sensation in the chest, the need to make an effort to take a deep breath, sighing
• PMS such as Lower abdominal distending pain before and during menstruation, breast distension and pain before the period
• Muscular tension, particularly in the trapezius and lower thoracic paraspinal muscles
• Digestive system symptoms
• Tongue is normal
• Pulse is wiry

Formulation of an individual Chinese herbal prescription is based on a preparation that will incorporate gynaecological formulas such as Kai Yu Zhong Yu Tang with Xiao Yao San, Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang, or Chai Hu Shu Gan Wan.

Key signs and symptoms of Liver Qi stagnation with stagnant Heat or Fire in infertility

In addition to the signs and symptoms listed above in Liver Qi Stagnation, one can expect to also see the following:

• Irritability and possibly also frequent angry outbursts
• Sleep disturbance
• Scanty and dark urination
• Tongue is dry and has red edges and possibly also a red tip
• Pulse is wiry and (slightly) rapid

Treatment Principle in Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine is to Disperse the stagnant Liver Qi, Tonify the (Liver) Qi and Blood, Regulate menstruation (by regulating the Qi and Blood) and Clear stagnant Heat (or reduce Fire).

Formulation of an individual Chinese herbal prescription is based on a preparation that will incorporate formulas such as Jia Wei Xiao Yao San, Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang.

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