What is heavy menstrual bleeding?
Heavy menstrual bleeding means losing an unusually large amount of blood during periods more than 7 days, clots bigger than a quarter, or soaking through products hourly, it may cause anemia and affect daily life.
Common causes
- Fibroids and polyps.
- Adenomyosis.
- Ovulation problems (for example: polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders).
- Bleeding disorders.
- Medications like blood thinners or copper intrauterine devices (IUDs).
- Endometrial cancer.
- Endometriosis or infections.
How it's diagnosed
Diagnosis includes history, physical exam, and tests:
- Pelvic exam and ultrasound.
- Blood tests for anemia and hormones.
- Endometrial biopsy or hysteroscopy.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or sonohysterography for detailed imaging.
Treatment options
- Hormonal birth control (pills, patch, ring, intrauterine device (IUD)).
- Hormone therapy (especially for perimenopause).
- Treatment for bleeding disorders.
Surgical options
- Endometrial ablation: Destroys the uterine lining.
- Myomectomy: Removes fibroids.
- Uterine artery embolization: Blocks blood flow to fibroids.
- Hysteroscopy: Removes fibroids or polyps.
- Hysterectomy: Removes uterus (last resort).
Final message
Heavy bleeding is treatable; it may signal a medical issue and can lead to complications like anemia.
Don't ignore it and speak with your obstetrics-gynecology about finding the right solution for you
