Can cupping be done during menstruation?

Cupping is one of the methods of treating diseases in traditional Chinese medicine. There are many benefits of cupping, and there are also many precautions. Some women usually use cupping to dredge menstrual blood, so some women want to ask whether cupping can be used during menstruation. The answer is definitely no, because the body of women during menstruation is relatively weak. Cupping at this time may cause menstrual blood blockage, so special attention needs to be paid.

Qi stagnation and blood stasis

Symptoms: Menstruation may be early or late, the amount of menstruation may be more or less, the color may be purple-red, there may be blood clots, and the menstrual process may not be smooth; or accompanied by lower abdominal pain and fear of pressure; or there may be swelling and pain in the ribs, breasts, lower abdomen, etc., and discomfort in the chest.

Governing Law

Method 1

Select acupoints: Diaphragm Shu, Liver Shu, Qi Men, Zhong Ji, and Xue Hai.

Location of Diaphragmatic Point: On the back, 1.5 inches lateral to the spinous process of the 7th thoracic vertebra [the acupoint is located at the vertebra at the level of the lower angle of both shoulder blades (7th thoracic vertebra), about 2 horizontal fingers (index and middle fingers) lateral to the lower edge of the spinous process].

Liver Shu: On the back, 1.5 inches lateral to the spinous process of the 9th thoracic vertebra [from the vertebra at the lower angle of both shoulder blades (7th thoracic vertebra), push down 2 vertebrae, that is, the lower edge of the spinous process of the 9th thoracic vertebra, about 2 horizontal fingers (index and middle fingers) lateral to the acupuncture point].

Qimen: On the chest, directly below the nipple, in the 6th intercostal space, 4 inches lateral to the anterior midline (men can take any position, women can lie down, and the acupoint is located two ribs below the nipple).

Zhongji: In the lower abdomen, on the anterior midline, 4 inches below the navel.

Xuehai: Bend the knee, on the inner side of the thigh, 2 inches above the inner end of the patella, at the bulge of the inner head of the quadriceps femoris (sitting, bend the knee to 90 degrees, the doctor stands opposite the patient, points the left palm to the center of the right patella, and places the palm on the knee, the tip of the thumb points to the point where the acupuncture point is).

Although cupping is not allowed during menstruation, it is a good treatment method for women at other times, so it is best to understand cupping correctly. Don't be too nervous before cupping, as this will be very harmful to your treatment process. If you feel pain during cupping, tell your doctor in time to avoid skin burns.