Irregular & Heavy Bleeding

Irregular & Heavy Bleeding

Irregular and heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, can be distressing and disruptive to a woman's life, impacting her physical, emotional, and social well-being. While occasional irregularities in menstrual cycles are common and may not necessarily indicate a serious underlying condition, persistent or severe irregular and heavy bleeding may warrant further evaluation and treatment.

Several factors can contribute to irregular and heavy menstrual bleeding. Hormonal imbalances, such as those associated with puberty, perimenopause, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and lead to irregular bleeding patterns. Uterine fibroids, polyps, or adenomyosis, which are noncancerous growths or tissue abnormalities in the uterus, can also cause heavy or irregular bleeding. Infections, thyroid disorders, blood clotting disorders, and certain medications, such as anticoagulants or hormonal contraceptives, may also play a role in menstrual irregularities.

The symptoms of irregular and heavy bleeding can vary widely among women and may include bleeding between periods, prolonged periods lasting more than seven days, menstrual cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days, passing large blood clots, and experiencing fatigue or weakness due to blood loss. These symptoms can significantly impact a woman's quality of life, leading to fatigue, anxiety, embarrassment, and restrictions in daily activities.

Diagnosis of irregular and heavy menstrual bleeding typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. A healthcare provider may inquire about the frequency, duration, and severity of bleeding episodes, as well as any associated symptoms or risk factors. A pelvic exam may be performed to assess the health of the reproductive organs and check for abnormalities such as fibroids or polyps. Further tests, such as blood tests to evaluate hormone levels, ultrasound imaging to visualize the uterus and ovaries, or endometrial biopsy to sample the uterine lining, may be recommended to determine the underlying cause of the bleeding.

Treatment for irregular and heavy menstrual bleeding depends on the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and a woman's reproductive goals. Hormonal therapies, such as birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, or GnRH agonists, may be prescribed to regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce bleeding. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate pain and reduce blood flow during menstruation. In cases where fibroids, polyps, or other structural abnormalities are contributing to the bleeding, surgical interventions such as myomectomy, polypectomy, or endometrial ablation may be considered to remove or treat the underlying cause. In severe cases where conservative treatments are ineffective or fertility is not a concern, hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended to permanently alleviate symptoms.