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Let's Decode Heavy Menstrual Bleeding for you!
Menstruation Period
Wed Mar 06 2024
Menorrhagia, or heavy menstrual bleeding, is a condition characterized by abnormally heavy or prolonged menstrual periods. This can be disruptive and may lead to other health issues if not addressed properly.
Causes of Menorrhagia:
Heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, can have various causes that can be broadly categorized into several different factors. Here are some of the common causes of heavy menstrual bleeding:
1. Hormonal Imbalance: Fluctuations in hormonal levels, especially estrogen and progesterone, can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding. Hormonal imbalances can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle, affecting the shedding of the uterine lining.
2. Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus called fibroids can cause heavy menstrual bleeding. Fibroids can vary in size and number and are associated with increased menstrual flow and longer periods.
3. Endometrial Polyps: These are small, benign growths in the lining of the uterus that can cause heavy or irregular bleeding. They are usually non-cancerous but may lead to heavy menstrual flow.
4. Adenomyosis*: This condition occurs when the tissue that lines the uterus starts to grow into the muscular walls of the uterus. Adenomyosis can lead to heavy periods and severe menstrual cramps.
5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs, usually caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding and other symptoms like pelvic pain and fever.
6. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS have hormonal imbalances that can lead to irregular periods, heavy bleeding, and other menstrual disturbances.
7. Thyroid Disorders: Both an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) and an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can affect menstrual cycles and lead to heavy bleeding.
8. Blood Disorders: Conditions like von Willebrand disease, a genetic bleeding disorder, or thrombocytopenia, a low platelet count, can cause heavy menstrual bleeding due to impaired blood clotting.
9. Certain Medications: Some medications, such as blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs, can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding as a side effect.
10. Other Factors: Stress, extreme weight loss or gain, excessive exercise, and certain medical conditions like liver or kidney disease can also contribute to heavy menstrual bleeding.
It is essential to consult a healthcare provider if you experience heavy menstrual bleeding to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Treatment options may include medication, hormonal therapy, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery, depending on the cause and severity of the condition.
Menorrhagia Symptoms:
1. Excessive Menstrual Flow: Heavy menstrual bleeding is characterized by the presence of excessive blood flow during the menstrual period. This means having to change tampons or pads more frequently than usual, possibly every hour or two.
2. Passing Blood Clots: Women with heavy menstrual bleeding often experience passing large blood clots during their period. These clots can be a sign of heavy flow and may cause discomfort.
3. Extended Menstrual Period: Heavy menstrual bleeding can also result in longer periods than usual. Typically, periods lasting more than seven days are considered prolonged.
4. Anaemia: Heavy menstrual bleeding can lead to anaemia due to the significant loss of blood, which can result in symptoms like fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and dizziness.
5. Menstrual Pain: Women with heavy menstrual bleeding may experience intense cramping and pelvic pain during their periods, which can be more severe than usual.
6. Soaking Through Products: If you find that you are soaking through pads or tampons quickly, this could be a sign of heavy menstrual bleeding.
7. Disrupted Daily Activities: Heavy menstrual bleeding can interfere with daily activities such as work, exercise, social events, or travel due to the need for frequent pad or tampon changes and the associated discomfort.
8. Fatigue: Excessive blood loss during heavy periods can lead to fatigue and general feelings of weakness or tiredness.
9. Breathlessness or Palpitations: In severe cases of heavy menstrual bleeding leading to significant blood loss, some women may experience symptoms like breathlessness or palpitations due to the decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
10. Low Iron Levels: Since heavy menstrual bleeding can result in iron deficiency anemia, symptoms such as shortness of breath, headaches, cold hands and feet, and brittle nails may occur as a result of low iron levels in the body.
Menorrhagia Treatment:
1. Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or hormonal medications like birth control pills are useful in regulating menstrual bleeding but may lead to unexpected bleeding during periods.
2. Surgical Procedures: Procedures like endometrial ablation or hysterectomy may be recommended in severe cases.
3. Treatment of Underlying Conditions: Addressing conditions like fibroids or endometriosis.
4. Iron Supplements: To manage anaemia caused by heavy bleeding.
5. Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise can help regulate menstrual cycles.
If you are experiencing symptoms of menorrhagia, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider if you notice any of these symptoms to determine the underlying cause of heavy menstrual bleeding and to explore appropriate treatment options.
Manipal TRUtest offers a wide range of diagnostic services with assured quality, accuracy, and trust backed by 70 years of Manipal legacy. You can easily schedule a blood test such as Diabetes profile test, HbA1c, CBC, Kidney Function Test, Lipid Profile, Liver Function Test, Vitamin Test. Thyroid Profile. through our WhatsApp Chatbot, Mobile App, or Website. We also provide the convenience of a Home Sample Collection, where a highly qualified phlebotomist will visit you in the comfort of your home.
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Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menorrhagia/symptoms-causes/syc-20352829
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menorrhagia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352834
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/295202
https://www.healthline.com/health/menstruation/menorrhagia
Related Blogs
Menstruation Period
Implantation Bleeding vs. Menstrual Period – What’s The Difference?
Implantation bleeding is a type of bleeding that can occur when a fertilized egg attaches itself to the lining of the uterus, typically around 6-12 days after fertilization. This bleeding is considered a very early sign of pregnancy. Here are some key points to understand implantation bleeding in more detail:
1. Timing: Implantation bleeding usually occurs around the time of your expected period, or a little earlier. It is often lighter and shorter in duration than a typical menstrual period.
2. Appearance: The bleeding is usually light pink or brown and may be very light compared to a regular menstrual period. It may also be accompanied by mild cramping or discomfort.
3. Duration: Implantation bleeding typically lasts for a short period, ranging from a few hours to a few days. It is not as heavy as a regular period and may not require the use of menstrual products like pads or tampons.
4. Other Symptoms: Some women may experience other early signs of pregnancy along with implantation bleeding, such as breast tenderness, fatigue, nausea, or changes in appetite.
5. Distinguishing from Menstrual Bleeding: While implantation bleeding can resemble menstrual bleeding to some extent, there are some differences. Menstrual bleeding is usually heavier, lasts longer, and may be accompanied by more intense cramping.
6. Confirmation of Pregnancy: If you suspect you are experiencing implantation bleeding, it's a good idea to take a pregnancy test a few days after the bleeding occurs to confirm pregnancy. Implantation bleeding, while a common early sign of pregnancy, is not a definitive indicator on its own.
7. Seeking Medical Advice: If you have concerns about any bleeding you experience during pregnancy, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance and reassurance.
Remember, not all women will experience implantation bleeding, and its occurrence can vary from person to person. If you suspect you might be pregnant or are experiencing any unusual symptoms, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.
A menstrual period is a normal part of the menstrual cycle in females. It is a monthly process where the lining of the uterus is shed through the vagina. Here's a detailed explanation of the menstrual period:
Overview of the Menstrual Cycle:
- The menstrual cycle is divided into different phases: menstruation, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase.
- The cycle is controlled by hormones, primarily estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the different stages.
Menstruation:
- Menstruation, also known as the period, is the first phase of the menstrual cycle.
- It typically lasts from 3 to 7 days, but this can vary from woman to woman.
- During menstruation, the body sheds the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) along with blood and tissue through the vagina.
- The average menstrual cycle is around 28 days, but it can range from 21 to 35 days in adults and slightly longer in teenagers.
Causes of Menstruation:
- Menstruation occurs when the body does not fertilize an egg released during ovulation.
- The drop in hormone levels triggers the shedding of the uterine lining.
Typical Menstrual Symptoms:
- Physical symptoms can include cramps, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, fatigue, and changes in appetite.
- Emotional symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, and fatigue are also common.
- Menstruation can vary from cycle to cycle, and experiences of different people may differ.
Managing Menstrual Periods:
- To manage menstrual periods, many women use menstrual products like pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or period panties.
- Pain relief medications, hot water bottles, and dietary changes may also help alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort.
Abnormal Menstrual Cycles:
- Changes in the regularity of menstrual cycles or the severity of symptoms can indicate hormonal imbalances or underlying health conditions.
- Abnormal bleeding patterns or severe pain during periods should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Overall, menstruation is a natural process that indicates a woman's reproductive health. Keeping track of menstrual cycles can help women understand their bodies better and identify any irregularities that may require medical attention.
Manipal TRUtest offers a wide range of diagnostic services with assured quality, accuracy, and trust backed by 70 years of Manipal legacy. You can easily schedule a blood test such as Diabetes profile test, HbA1c, CBC, Kidney Function Test, Lipid Profile, Liver Function Test, Vitamin Test. Thyroid Profile. through our WhatsApp Chatbot, Mobile App, or Website. We also provide the convenience of a Home Sample Collection, where a highly qualified phlebotomist will visit you in the comfort of your home.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/health/implantation-bleeding-vs-period
https://www.verywellhealth.com/implantation-bleeding-vs-periods-7093280
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