How to Increase Blood Flow During Periods Naturally?

Before we learn how to increase blood flow during periods, let’s first understand what triggers abnormal periods. Causes of abnormal periods range from stress to some severe underlying conditions:

1. Birth control pills
2. Endometriosis 
3. Uterine fibroids or polyps
4. Pelvic inflammatory disease
5. Premature ovarian insufficiency
6. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
7. Cancer (uterine or cervical)
8. Medication (steroids)
9. A medical condition that affects the hormonal balance
10. Complications linked with pregnancy (ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage)

You might have tried out all those hacks your friends and relatives suggested. When all those tips turn out to be a complete failure, you search online for how to increase blood flow during periods naturally. Here are the simple ways by which you can increase blood flow during periods:

1. Home Remedies
2. Ayurvedic Methods
3. Yoga Asanas
4. Exercises

Here are a few home remedies that are pocket-friendly and readily available to help you increase your blood flow during periods:

Beetroot

1. Beetroot may help deal with period problems like light flow. 
2. Beetroot contains a high amount of folate, iron, and manganese. 
3. It also has emmenagogue properties that help menstrual flow. 
4. Simply chop a few washed beetroots and take the juice out and drink fresh beetroot juice to enjoy its health benefits.

Unripe papaya

1. Papaya is well-known for its action on the uterus. 
2. Unripe papaya has the property of an emmenagogue, i.e., it enhances contractions of the uterus muscles and induces menstrual flow. So, if you are wondering how to increase blood flow during periods, you can try raw papaya. 
3. You can slice a few raw papayas, sprinkle some salt and spices, or drink papaya juice.

Cinnamon

1. Cinnamon, also called dalchini, helps regulate the cycle and reduce menstrual cramps. 
2. According to traditional Chinese medicine, cinnamon has the property of bringing warmth to the body. 
3. It also contains hydroxychalcone, a compound that may influence period regularity.
4. You can mix some cinnamon powder in a glass of milk and drink it. Alternatively, you can use this versatile spice in your desserts, rice preparations and even curries

Turmeric

1. It is considered helpful in balancing hormones and regulating the menstrual cycle. 
2. Turmeric/haldi is supposed to bring warmth to the body and stimulate menstrual flow. 
3. You can have a glass of milk with some turmeric powder to improve your period flow.

Sesame

1. Sesame, known as til in Hindi, aids in alleviating period problems. 
2. It induces menstrual flow and increases libido. 
3. It is known to improve cycles without noticeable side effects in women with severe oligomenorrhea (irregular and inconsistent menstrual blood flow). 
4. Mix some sesame seed powder in lukewarm water and drink it to improve a light period flow.

Mint

1. Mint, also known as pudina has been used for many years to relieve stomach-related and gynaecological complaints. 
2. It has emmenagogue properties, encourages menstruation, and helps regulate the cycle.
3. You are probably wondering how to increase blood flow during periods using mint. Chew a few mint leaves or brew some mint tea to tackle a light period flow using this natural breath freshener. 

Fennel

1. Fennel, also known as saunf, is effective in producing menstruation and improving the period cycle. 
2. According to traditional Persian medicine, fennel is considered a medicinal plant for its properties, such as emmenagogue, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, etc. 
3. In fact, fennel was found to be effective in inducing periods after the use of medroxyprogesterone acetate in a control-group study. 
4. Soak some fennel seeds in a glass of water overnight, drink it in the morning, or brew some fennel tea!

Fenugreek (methi)

1. Many people use methi to fight lung, stomach-related, and gynaecological problems. 
2. It is known to regulate the menstrual cycle and improves fertility. 
3. It improves the ratio of luteinising and follicle-stimulating hormones, which might help reverse polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) features that cause light or missed periods. 
4. Soak some methi seeds in a glass of water overnight and drink it early in the morning.

A few ayurvedic remedies that may help you improve your menstrual flow are follows:

1. Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus): As per Ayurveda, the herb Shatavari has several medicinal purposes.
   1. Women consume this remedy for concerns related to the menstrual cycle, infertility, ovarian follicle formation, and healthy functioning of the reproductive system.
   2. Shatavari may be helpful for menstruation-related issues such as irregular periods, painful menstruation, heavy periods, etc. The plant contains phytoestrogens, a natural plant-based oestrogen, that may boost blood flow. 
2. Triphala: It is a mixture of three fruits, namely, Haritaki, Amla, and Beheda. According to Ayurveda, Triphala is a ‘tridoshic rasayana’ that affects the three doshas - vata, pitta, and kapha.
   1. Triphala brings balance to these tridoshas and is an effective remedy for detoxification.
   2. It contains several phenolic compounds that affect the regulation of hormones and aid in alleviating menstrual irregularities. To read more, click Benefits of Triphala powder for Piles in Hindi. 
3. Ashoka (Saraca Asoka): Ashoka is one of the best uterine tonics as it aids in combating irregular menstrual cycles. Ashoka acts as a natural oestrogen that promotes healthy uterine function. 
4. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): This medicinal herb has several therapeutic benefits, such as anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, and ovarian balance restoration etc. Thus, it aids in regulating menstrual flow and increasing immunity.

Yoga is an effective exercise to increase blood flow during periods. Yoga asanas for irregular menstrual flow are as follows:

Bhujangasana (Cobra pose)

Bhujangasana tones the abdomen strengthens and improves flexibility of the entire back and shoulders, and lowers stress and fatigue. It also improves blood circulation and, thus, might help improve light blood flow during periods. To perform bhujagasana: 

1. Lie down on your belly with your toes flat on the mat. 
2. Rest your forehead on the mat.
3. Now, place both hands flat on the mat under the shoulders.
4. Breathe in and gently lift your head, chest, and belly area off the mat. This resembles a cobra that’s ready to attack.  
5. Maintain the posture for 4-5 breaths. 
6. Now, breathe out, and gently bring your belly, chest, and head back to the floor and relax.[6]

Dhanurasana (Bow pose)

Dhanurasana strengthens the abdominal and back muscles, alleviates fatigue and stress, and relieves menstrual discomfort.[7] This yoga asana is helpful for irregular menstruation. To perform dhanurasana:

1. Lie on your belly with your feet kept hip-width apart and your arms by the side of your body.
2. Fold your knees, take your arms backwards, and hold your ankles.
3. Breathe in, lift your chest off the ground, and pull your legs up and towards the back. 
4. Hold this posture for five to ten seconds. 
5. Continue to take long, deep breaths as you relax in this pose. 
6. Refrain from overdoing the stretch. Bend only as far as your body permits you to. 
7. Breathe out, and gently bring your legs and chest to the mat. Release the ankles and relax.

Halasana (Plow pose)

Halasana strengthens and opens the shoulders, neck, abs, and back muscles, reduces stress and fatigue, calms the nervous system, and strengthens the immune system. It also stimulates the thyroid gland, which might help improve light periods. To perform halasana:

1. Lie down on the mat with your arms beside you, palms facing downwards.
2. Breathe in and use your abdominal muscles to lift your leg off the mat, raising your legs at a 90-degree angle.
3. Now, continue to breathe normally. 
4. Support your back and hips with your hands, and lift them off the mat.
5. Sweep your legs at a 180-degree angle over your head till your toes touch the mat. Your back should be perpendicular to the floor. 
6. Hold this posture for some time. 
7. Now, breathe out and bring down your legs.

Vajrasana (thunderbolt pose)

Vajrasana improves blood circulation in the lower abdomen, which might enhance light blood flow. It strengthens the nerves of the legs and thighs, relaxes the hip region, and helps relieve menstrual pain. To do vajrasana: 

1. Sit down on the mat with your legs stretched straight in front of you.
2. Now, fold both legs and sit in a kneeling posture.
3. Keep your hips on the heels. The toes should point outwards behind you.
4. Now, sit comfortably on the pit made by the parted heels.
5. Keep your spine erect. Place your palms on your thighs.
6. Hold this posture as far as comfortable.
7. Now, breathe out and relax.

Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)

It is a yoga pose that can help increase blood flow to the pelvis and alleviate menstrual cramps. Here's how to perform paschimottanasana:

1. Sit on the floor with your legs stretched out in front of you.
2. Inhale and raise your arms above your head.
3. Exhale and bend forward from your hips, keeping your back straight. Reach for your toes with your hands.
4. Hold the pose for several breaths, breathing deeply and slowly.
5. As you hold the pose, focus on relaxing the pelvic area and allowing blood flow to increase.
6. When ready to release the pose, slowly inhale and lift your torso back up to a seated position.

Baddha Konasana (Bound Angle Pose or Butterfly Pose)

It is a yoga pose that can help increase blood flow to the pelvis and alleviate menstrual cramps. Here's how to perform Baddha Konasana:

1. Sit on the floor with your legs stretched out in front of you.
2. Bend your knees and bring the soles of your feet together.
3. Grasp your feet with your hands and gently pull your heels toward your pelvis. Keep your spine straight.
4. Use your elbows to press your knees toward the floor gently.
5. Close your eyes and breathe deeply, focusing on relaxing the pelvic area and allowing blood flow to increase.
6. Hold the pose for several breaths or as long as it feels comfortable.
7. When ready to release the pose, slowly release your feet and stretch your legs out in front of you.

Exercise can also be an effective way to increase blood flow and alleviate these symptoms. Here are some exercises that can help increase blood flow during periods:

1. Cardiovascular exercise: Any aerobic exercise, such as walking, jogging, or cycling, can help increase blood flow and oxygen to the body. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day.
2. Pelvic exercises: Exercises that engage the pelvic floor muscles can help improve blood flow to the pelvis and alleviate cramps. Kegel exercises are a good example of pelvic exercises.
3. Stretching: Gentle stretching can help improve blood flow and relieve tension in the body. Focus on stretching the lower back, hips, and legs, which can be particularly tight during menstruation.
4. Swimming: Swimming is a low-impact exercise that can help increase blood flow to the body. It can also be relaxing and help alleviate cramps.

The above-mentioned remedies help in increasing blood flow during periods. However, one must keep certain things in mind before undertaking any of the remedies. The key things to remember while undertaking remedies to increase blood flow during periods include:

1. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids.
2. Consuming a balanced and nutrient-rich diet.
3. Engaging in light physical activity increases blood flow and reduces cramps.
4. Avoiding foods that increase bloating and discomfort, such as dairy and processed foods.
5. Using heating pads or taking warm baths to soothe cramps.
6. Getting enough sleep and rest to reduce stress levels.
7. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and smoking as they can dehydrate the body and reduce blood flow.
8. Change sanitary napkins or tampons after every 4-6 hours to prevent infections like toxic shock syndrome (a bacterial infection that can be life-threatening).
9. If you are an athlete, cut down on intense or prolonged exercise routines. Excessive sports activities may cause irregular periods. 
10. Consulting with a gynaecologist before starting any new remedy to ensure it is safe and effective for you.

You know how to increase blood flow during periods, but it is advisable to get expert advice. Most women go through some period problems at some point in their lives. However, you must consult a gynaecologist if you experience the following:

1. Severe pain during periods
2. High fever
3. Foul-smelling or abnormal vaginal discharge
4. Vomiting or nausea during menstruation
5. Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome (fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, dizziness).

Periods are not accessible, and we understand that. Every phase of life, teenage, motherhood and even menopause, brings many changes that every woman must deal with. However, if you face repeated concerns during the monthly cycle, identifying the cause is essential to get the right treatment. The answer to your problems lies with your gynaecologist. 

Home remedies, ayurvedic herbs, practising yoga and lifestyle changes might help you improve your menstrual flow. However, if these don't help, consult your gynaecologist for a detailed evaluation of your condition. You can also contact the patient care team of HexaHealth if you wish to know how to increase blood flow during periods and how these conditions can be treated surgically. Our medical experts will guide you on how you can achieve stress-free periods.  

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