Heavy periods every month what can that mean?
Heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, is defined as bleeding that lasts for more than seven days or produces a blood loss of more than 80 milliliters per period.
Causes
Common causes of heavy menstrual bleeding include:
* Hormonal imbalances: Imbalances in the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which control the menstrual cycle, can cause the lining of the uterus to become thicker, leading to heavier bleeding.
* Uterine fibroids: These non-cancerous growths in the uterus can cause the walls to become thickened and uneven, leading to heavier bleeding.
* Adenomyosis: This condition occurs when the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus grows into the muscle of the uterus, leading to heavier bleeding.
* Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus grows outside the uterus, leading to heavier bleeding.
* Ovarian cysts: These fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries can disrupt the menstrual cycle and cause heavier bleeding.
* Pregnancy complications: Certain pregnancy complications, such as a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, can cause heavier bleeding.
* Bleeding disorders: Certain blood clotting disorders, such as von Willebrand disease, can cause heavier bleeding.
* Medications: Certain medications, such as anticoagulants (blood thinners) and some hormonal therapies, can cause heavier bleeding.
* Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, and obesity, can cause heavier bleeding.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your medical history and symptoms, and may perform a physical examination and pelvic exam. They may also order one or more of the following tests:
* Blood tests: These tests can check for anemia, thyroid disorders, and other medical conditions that can cause heavier bleeding.
* Ultrasound: This imaging test can help identify uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, and other structural abnormalities that can cause heavier bleeding.
* Hysteroscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin, lighted instrument called a hysteroscope into the uterus to examine the inside of the uterus for abnormalities.
* Endometrial biopsy: This procedure involves taking a small sample of tissue from the lining of the uterus to examine it for abnormalities.
Treatment
Treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding depends on the underlying cause. Common treatment options include:
* Medications: Medications such as birth control pills, progestin-only pills, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to reduce heavy bleeding.
* Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to remove uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, or other structural abnormalities that are causing heavier bleeding.
* Uterine ablation: This procedure involves destroying the lining of the uterus to reduce bleeding.
* Hysterectomy: This procedure involves removing the uterus, and is typically only used as a last resort when other treatments have failed.