PMS · Liver Depression Transforming into Fire Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Pelvis

Pattern Overview

Liver Depression Transforming into Fire is a common pattern in PMS, characterized by luteal phase neurotransmitter fluctuation, irritability, headache, insomnia, acne, and premenstrual migraine. The core pathogenesis is Liver-Qi stagnation transforming into Fire, leading to neurotransmitter imbalance, elevated prolactin, and emotional and physical symptoms.

PMS · Liver-Qi Stagnation Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Pelvis

Pattern Overview

Liver-Qi Stagnation is the most common pattern in PMS, characterized by luteal phase estrogen-progesterone imbalance, irritability, breast tenderness, bloating, and mood swings. The core pathogenesis is luteal phase hormonal fluctuations causing Liver-Qi stagnation, leading to emotional symptoms, breast tenderness, and fluid retention.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |

PMS · Qi-Blood Deficiency Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Pelvis

Pattern Overview

Qi-Blood Deficiency is a common pattern in PMS, characterized by luteal phase insufficiency, fatigue, pale complexion, dizziness, poor sleep, and anemia. The core pathogenesis is insufficient Qi and Blood failing to nourish the body, leading to luteal phase insufficiency, low progesterone levels, and impaired function.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |

PMS · Spleen Deficiency with Phlegm-Dampness Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Pelvis

Pattern Overview

Spleen Deficiency with Phlegm-Dampness is a common pattern in PMS, characterized by water retention, weight gain, bloating, heavy sensation, and sticky mouth. The core pathogenesis is Spleen deficiency with Phlegm-Dampness accumulation, leading to fluid retention, weight gain, and bloating.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |

PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome): TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide

Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 8 min
Body Area: Pelvis / Whole Body

Overview

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects up to 30% of reproductive-aged women, causing a cluster of physical and emotional symptoms—irritability, bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, mood swings—that appear during the luteal phase and resolve with menstruation. For roughly 5-8% of women, symptoms are severe enough to meet criteria for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), disrupting relationships, work, and daily functioning.