Why are your periods too heavy?
- Category: Women's Health
- Date: 11-09-2022
Are you experiencing abnormally heavy menses (periods)? You are not alone; about one in 5 women experience heavy menses. Doctors use the word “menorrhagia” to describe both heavy menses (changing a pad in less than 2hours) prolonged bleeding (lasting more than 7days). Either of these conditions can cause unusual discomfort to women who experience them. If left untreated, either may lead to anaemia, a condition where one’s blood levels are low.
Heavy or prolonged menses can be caused by fibroid (abnormal growths in the uterus), hormonal imbalance (which may be because of by hormonal contraceptives), drugs like aspirin, family planning devices like those inserted in the uterus (IUDs), thyroid gland dysfunction and clotting disorders. In some women, especially those of advanced age, uterine cancer could be the cause of menstrual disorders.
It is important to investigate and treat the cause of heavy /prolonged menstrual bleeding to reduce the impact of the disease. To determine the cause, you doctor will ask you questions regarding family planning methods you use, family disorders, medicines you are taking and onset of the condition. Your doctor may do blood tests to check for levels of anaemia, clotting problems, or disorders of the thyroid gland. An ultrasound of the abdomen may be done to find out if you have abnormal growths in the uterus such as fibroids.
Treatment options depends on how severe the condition is, cause, age and general health of the patient. In some cases of hormonal imbalance contraceptive pills may be prescribed. If you have anaemia iron supplements may be given. Some drugs can reduce the amount of bleeding. Pain killers maybe required as most women experience pain in addition to abnormal bleeding. Fibroids may be removed through a surgical procedure while in severe cases or if cancer is confirmed your doctor may recommend removal of the entire uterus.
Speak to us today about any changes you have observed in your periods (menses).