Heavy Periods: Causes, Treatment and When to See a Doctor

Are you soaking through pads every hour or two during your periods? Do you experience fatigue and weakness during menstruation? You're not alone. Many women in Vizag face heavy periods, medically known as menorrhagia, but often hesitate to seek help thinking it's 'normal'. Let's understand when heavy bleeding needs medical attention.

What Are Heavy Periods?

While every woman's cycle is different, heavy periods typically involve bleeding that lasts more than 7 days, needing pad changes every 1-2 hours, passing large blood clots, or experiencing symptoms like dizziness and fatigue due to blood loss. If your daily activities are affected during menstruation, it's time to consult a gynecologist.

Common Causes of Heavy Bleeding

Several factors can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding. Hormonal imbalances are among the most common causes, where the lining of the uterus becomes too thick. Uterine fibroids (non-cancerous growths in the uterus) and polyps can also cause excessive bleeding. PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome) often leads to irregular and heavy periods due to hormonal disturbances. Other causes include thyroid problems, blood clotting disorders, adenomyosis, and certain medications like blood thinners.

Treatment Options Available

The good news is that heavy periods are treatable. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, your age, and future pregnancy plans. Hormonal medications like birth control pills or hormonal IUDs can regulate your cycle and reduce bleeding. Iron supplements help manage anemia caused by blood loss. For structural problems like fibroids, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended. In cases related to PMOS, lifestyle modifications combined with medication often bring significant improvement.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Don't ignore heavy periods. Seek medical attention if you're changing pads every hour, passing clots larger than a coin, bleeding for more than a week, experiencing severe pain, or feeling constantly tired and breathless. These symptoms could indicate anemia or other serious conditions requiring prompt treatment.

Remember, heavy periods are not something you need to 'just manage'. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can enjoy a better quality of life. If you're experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, consult Dr. Rukmini Sowmya at Aara Gynecare, F4, 1st Floor, Akshaya Medizone, Opp. KGH Clock Tower, Maharanipeta, Visakhapatnam. Visit aara.co.in

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