One of the most common types of abnormal bleeding from the uterus is heavy or prolonged periods. Also known as menorrhagia, heavy or prolonged periods are not only inconvenient, but they can interfere with sleep and daily activities and lead to health issues if the periods are severe enough. Fortunately, there are numerous treatment options available.
Symptoms of Heavy Periods
Periods are considered heavy if there is enough menstrual blood to soak through a pad or tampon every hour. Many women with heavy periods find they have to double up on pad to control their menstrual flow or find they have to change their pad during the night. Other symptoms include passing large blood clots, having a period that lasts longer than seven days, and feeling tired or short of breath.
Ultimately, a doctor should assess any menstrual period that stops you from doing the things you would normally do.
What Causes Heavy Periods?
Possible cause for heavy periods typically fall into one of three area:
Hormonal Imbalances: A natural reaction to having a higher levels of estrogen and lower levels of progesterone.
Uterine-Related Problem: This includes any growths within the uterus such as fibroids or polyps. Uterine-related problems can also include uterine or cervical cancers, complications from an IUD or problems related to pregnancy.
Other Illnesses: Bleeding-related disorders, platelet function disorders, and non-bleeding disorders like liver, kidney and thyroid disease can all cause heavy periods. Pelvic inflammatory disease and certain cancers are rare but could be the underlying issue.
Heavy Periods Treatments
Heavy menstrual bleeding is treated with drug therapy or surgery. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the bleeding, so it is important to see your doctor to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Some possible medication treatment for heavy periods may include:
Drug Therapy
– Hormone Therapy
– Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatories
– Certain IUDs
– Iron Supplements
– OTC Painkillers
Surgical Treatment
– Hysterectomy
– Hysteroscopy
– Endometrial Ablation
Heavy Period Treatment at OB-GYN Women’s Centre of Lakewood Ranch
Your menstrual cycle shouldn’t affect your daily life. At OB-GYN Women’s Centre of Lakewood Ranch, we provide treatment options for heavy or prolonged periods. Give us a call today to discuss all of the treatment options available and which is the right choice for you.
