Heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia, refer to menstrual bleeding that is excessively heavy or prolonged. While the definition of “heavy” can vary, it generally means bleeding that interferes with daily activities and significantly impacts quality of life.
Causes
Heavy periods can result from a variety of causes, including:
- Hormonal imbalances: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels can cause the uterine lining to thicken, leading to heavier bleeding.
- Uterine fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus can cause heavy or prolonged periods.
- Polyps: Small growths in the uterine lining can also cause heavy bleeding.
- Adenomyosis: A condition in which the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus.
- Bleeding disorders: Conditions like von Willebrand disease can affect blood clotting and lead to heavy periods.
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs): Some IUDs can cause heavier bleeding, especially in the first few months after insertion.
- Cancer: Rarely, uterine or cervical cancer can cause heavy periods.
Symptoms
Symptoms of heavy periods may include:
- Soaking through one or more pads or tampons every hour for several consecutive hours
- Needing to change pads or tampons during the night
- Passing large blood clots
- Periods lasting longer than seven days
- Anemia (low iron levels) due to blood loss
- Fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Medical history and symptom review
- Pelvic examination
- Blood tests: To check hormone levels and rule out anemia or bleeding disorders.
- Endometrial biopsy: A sample of the uterine lining is taken for laboratory analysis.
- Ultrasound: To visualize the uterus and ovaries.
- Hysteroscopy: A procedure to examine the inside of the uterus.
Treatment Options
Treatment for heavy periods depends on the underlying cause and may include:
- Medications: Hormonal birth control, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or tranexamic acid to reduce bleeding.
- Hormonal IUD: Can reduce bleeding and provide contraception.
- Dilation and curettage (D&C): A procedure to remove the uterine lining.
- Endometrial ablation: A procedure to destroy the uterine lining.
- Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids.
- Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus, which is a definitive treatment option.
Prevention
While not all causes of heavy periods can be prevented, you can reduce risk by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Managing hormonal imbalances
- Attending regular gynecological check-ups
Takeaway
Heavy periods are a common condition that can significantly impact quality of life. If you experience heavy or prolonged bleeding, consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and appropriate treatment.