Menorrhagia: Why Is My Period So Heavy?

Reviewed By: Dr. Shruthi Mantri, fertility specialist at Ferty9 Fertility Center, L. B. Nagar

Have you ever found yourself wondering, "Why is my period so heavy?" You're not alone. Many women experience heavy menstrual bleeding, a condition known as menorrhagia. It's more than just an inconvenience; it can be a sign of underlying systemic issues and significantly impact your quality of life. In this blog, we'll dive deep into the world of menorrhagia, exploring its causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. Whether you're dealing with heavy bleeding during periods yourself or simply want to be informed, this comprehensive blog will help you understand the ins and outs of heavy menstrual bleeding.

Also read: Menstrual Cycle and Fertility

What is Menorrhagia?

Menorrhagia isn't just a fancy medical term; it's a reality for many women who experience unusually heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. But what exactly does menorrhagia mean? The common signs that you're losing too much blood during the period are changing your pad or tampon every hour, passing large blood clots, or bleeding for more than a week. That's menorrhagia. It's not just about the quantity of blood; it's about how this excessive bleeding affects your daily life. Do you find yourself avoiding social activities or missing work during your period? That's the real impact of menorrhagia.

Also read: Four Phases of Menstrual Cycle

What Causes Menorrhagia?

Understanding the root causes of menorrhagia is crucial in addressing this condition effectively. Here are some of the common menorrhagia causes:

Hormonal Imbalances

When there's an imbalance, particularly with oestrogen and progesterone hormones, it can lead to heavy bleeding. Conditions like thyroid disorders or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause hormonal fluctuation, resulting in heavy bleeding periods.

Uterine Abnormalities

Sometimes, the issue lies within the structure of the uterus itself. Fibroids, non-cancerous abnormal growths, can disrupt menstrual flow. Polyps, another type of unusual growth, and adenomyosis (tissues similar to the endometrium grow in the uterus muscle wall) can also lead to heavy bleeding.

Medical Conditions

Your body is interconnected; sometimes, problems in one area can manifest as heavy bleeding. Conditions like von Willebrand disease, a blood clotting disorder, can cause heavy periods. Liver conditions, kidney disease, or pelvic inflammatory disease can also play a role in excessive bleeding during the period.

Medications

Some medications can be the hidden reason for heavy periods. Blood thinners, for instance, can increase menstrual flow. Even some hormonal medications that regulate your cycle can sometimes have the opposite effect.

Also read: Tips for Maintaining Optimal Vaginal Hygiene

How is Menorrhagia Diagnosed?

If you suspect you're dealing with heavy menstrual bleeding, don't suffer in silence. Reaching out to a doctor is the first step towards finding relief. Here's what you might expect during the diagnostic process:

Blood Tests

A simple blood analysis can check for anaemia (a common side effect of heavy bleeding), thyroid issues, or clotting disorders.

Pap Test

This routine test isn't just for cancer screening. It can also help identify infections or abnormalities in your cervix that might be contributing to heavy bleeding.

Ultrasound

A transvaginal ultrasound provides a window into your uterus, allowing doctors to spot fibroids, polyps, or other structural issues.

Biopsy

Sometimes, doctors take a small sample of your uterine lining for closer examination. This can help rule out more serious conditions like endometrial cancer.

Hysteroscopy

This procedure allows your doctor to take a direct look inside your uterus using a thin, lighted tube, helping them spot any abnormalities.

Dilation and curettage (D&C)

This procedure removes a sample of uterine tissue for examination. It's more invasive than other tests but can provide crucial information about the underlying causes of heavy menstrual bleeding.

Menorrhagia Treatment

The treatment approach for heavy periods depends on the underlying reason and your personal health goals. The following are some treatment options for prolonged menstrual bleeding:

Treatment for Hormone Problems:

If hormonal imbalances are the contributing cause, your doctor might recommend:

Birth control pills to regulate your cycle
Hormonal IUDs to reduce bleeding
Other hormonal therapies to balance your system

Also read: Birth Control Pills and Their Effect on Menstrual Cycles

Treatment for Problems with the Uterine Lining:

For issues related to the uterine lining, treatment options might include:

Endometrial ablation, which removes the uterine lining
Myomectomy to remove fibroids
Hysterectomy in severe cases (though this is typically a last resort)

Also read: Ovarian Cancer in Young Women

How does Menorrhagia Impact Fertility?

For women hoping to conceive, menorrhagia can be more than just a nuisance – it can affect fertility. Heavy bleeding can sometimes indicate problems with ovulation or create an environment that's less hospitable for implantation. However, treating the underlying cause of menorrhagia often improves fertility prospects.

When should I Call my Doctor?

Listen to your body. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's time to reach out:

Bleeding that lasts more than a week
Bleeding that soaks through a tampon or pad every hour for several hours
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
Severe pain or cramping

Remember, your health is precious. Don't hesitate to seek help if something feels off.

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Conclusion

Menorrhagia might be common, but it's not something you have to live with. Understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and knowing your treatment options are crucial steps in taking control of your menstrual health. Remember, every woman's experience is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. The key is to work closely with your doctor to find the best solution.

Your period shouldn't rule your life or hold you back from the things you love. With the right approach, you can manage menorrhagia and reclaim your quality of life. Don't let heavy periods weigh you down – take the first step towards lighter, more manageable periods today.

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FAQ's

Can lifestyle changes help with menorrhagia?

While lifestyle changes alone may not cure menorrhagia, they can certainly help manage symptoms. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress can all contribute to more regular menstrual cycles. Some women find that dietary changes can help. These include quitting smoking, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, and limiting fast food consumption.

Can menorrhagia be prevented?

While you can't always prevent menorrhagia, you can take steps to reduce your risk. Regular check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and promptly addressing any underlying health conditions can all help. Maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and following a balanced, iron-rich diet can support overall menstrual health.

What are the long-term effects of untreated menorrhagia?

Untreated menorrhagia can lead to chronic anaemia, which can result in fatigue, weakness, and other health issues. It can also impact your quality of life, leading to social isolation and even depression. In some cases, untreated menorrhagia might mask more serious underlying conditions.

How can I track my symptoms effectively?

Keeping a menstrual diary can be incredibly helpful. Note the duration of your period, how often you need to change your pad or tampon, and any other symptoms you experience. There are also many apps available that can help you track your cycle. This information can be invaluable when discussing your symptoms with your doctor.