I have antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and am on heparin and low dose aspirin and am currently 35 weeks pregnant. This regime has worked well for me, I had recurring miscarriages previously, this is now my third pregnancy in a row that has made it past 6 weeks, and so far this little guy seems to be doing just fine. Unfortunately, I haven't been and struggle with intense anger and emotional volatility issues while pregnant and for a few months post partum. This is compounded with each successful pregnancy as I have more responsibilities to deal with, current;y my two younger high energy kids. I went to a TCM practitioner in Victoria BC and he gave me some herb tea packs to use for a week, one of the packages to use daily is dang guai. I know that Dang Guai use in pregnancy is a source of controversy as far as western vs chinese medicine goes, however I'm not too worried about labor starting this early but i am wondering about the blood thinning stuff because I'm already on two other blood thinners. I mentioned this to the TCM doctor and he wasn't concerned about it and thought that it would really help me and be of benefit. I know that you guys deal with my condition, patients who are on blood thinners, and TCM herbs so I'm hoping that I can get some expert second opinions and thoughts. Thank you!
Dang Guai, Heparin, Low dose aspirin, third trimester?
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We normally do not mix herbs with Heparin. That is not to say we would
never. Herbs that quicken Blood (thin blood) should be used very cautiously
since Heparin already does that "too well". Please keep in mind that
according to Chinese Medicine theory, herbs behave differently when used alone
than in a formula. It is similar to ingredients in a recipe. An
egg by itself versus an egg used in making bread is very different.
So your formula may be well balanced and have been chosen to treat your underlying
pattern and the fact that you are on heparin.
There may be practitioners
who have experience using herbs with Heparin and can do so safely.
Your post signals to me you may have doubt and concern. Hopefully
your practitioner has experiencecombining herbs with heparin and/or he is communication with your
hematologist to ensure you and your pregnancy are safe.
I am curious to know if the formula helps you with your
irritability. Maybe you can send me a
personal email and share how it worked for you.
I am always open to asking and learning from other practitioners so I
can incorporate best practice medicine into our practice at Acubalance.
Good luck!!!
Lorne Brown, Dr. TCM, FABORM
Acubalance Wellness Centre Founder & Clinical Director
Vancouver and Langley