Excessive Vaginal Discharge in Chinese Medicine
Etiology and Pathology
The main causes of excessive vaginal discharge in Chinese medicine are:
- Irregular diet, excessive physical work
- Emotional strain
- Obstruction of the lower orifices
- Kidney deficiency and Yin deficiency
Identification of Patterns and Treatments
The appearance and characteristics of the vaginal discharge are used to identify the underlying pattern of disharmony in Chinese medicine. Some common patterns include:
- Damp-Heat: yellow or green discharge with a strong odor
- Toxic-Heat: red or yellow discharge with blood and a strong odor
- Kidney deficiency: thin, watery discharge
- Yin deficiency: thin, white discharge
- Clearing Heat and resolving Dampness
- Invigorating Blood and dissolving Blood stasis
- Tonifying the Kidneys and nourishing Yin
Prognosis and Prevention
The prognosis for excessive vaginal discharge in Chinese medicine depends on the underlying pattern of disharmony. Some patterns have a better prognosis than others, and the prognosis may be improved with early treatment and lifestyle changes.
To prevent excessive vaginal discharge, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, avoid excessive physical work and emotional stress, and keep the lower orifices open.
Western Viewpoint
In Western medicine, excessive vaginal discharge is often caused by local infections or hormonal imbalances. It may also be a symptom of more serious conditions, such as uterine cancer.
The treatment for excessive vaginal discharge in Western medicine may include antibiotics, antifungal medications, or hormonal therapy, depending on the cause.
The prognosis and prevention of excessive vaginal discharge in Western medicine are similar to those in Chinese medicine, with the addition of regular check-ups and screening for underlying conditions.