Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Facts About Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Dr. Mamta Mishra Nov 06, 2023
Heavy menstrual bleeding is very common. About one third of women seek treatment for it. It affects quality of life and may be a sign of a more serious health problem.
When is menstrual bleeding considered “heavy”?
- Bleeding that lasts more than 7 days.
- Bleeding that soaks through one or more tampons or pads every hour for several hours in a row.
- Needing to wear more than one pad at a time to control menstrual flow.
- Needing to change pads or tampons during the night.
- Menstrual flow with blood clots that are as big as a quarter or larger.
What causes heavy menstrual bleeding?
- polycystic ovary syndrome, fibroids, endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease
- Bleeding disorders
- Medications—Blood thinners e.g aspirin
- Cancer—Heavy menstrual bleeding can be an early sign of womb cancer
How heavy menstrual bleeding is evaluated?
- Blood test is done to check iron deficiency anaemia or thyroid disorders
- Pelvic exam
- Might need a pregnancy test
- Tests for some sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Based on symptoms and age, additional tests may be needed:
Treatment for heavy periods- heavy periods need to be treated if they’re affecting quality of life. Medications often are tried first to treat heavy menstrual bleeding. If medication does not reduce bleeding, a surgical procedure may be recommended which included removal of fibroids or removal of uterus.
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Dr. Mamta Mishra
DIRECTOR OBSTETRICS & GYNAECOLOGY | Fortis Vasant Kunj
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology | Obstetrics and Gynaecology
- 25 Years
- 1500