As The London Gynaecologist, I frequently encounter questions from patients about their menstrual health, with one of the most common concerns being heavy bleeding during periods. Understanding the reasons behind this can not only alleviate worries but also help in identifying when it might be necessary to seek professional advice. Through this article, I aim to shed light on this topic, drawing upon my extensive experience in the field.
Understanding Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Heavy menstrual bleeding, medically known as menorrhagia, is characterised by excessively heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. It’s important to distinguish between what is considered normal menstrual flow and what falls into the category of heavy bleeding. If you find yourself needing to change your sanitary products every hour for several consecutive hours, or if your periods last more than 7 days, it might be indicative of menorrhagia.
Common Causes of Heavy Bleeding
Several factors can contribute to heavy menstrual bleeding, ranging from hormonal imbalances to underlying health conditions. Some of the most common causes include:
- Hormonal Imbalances: Imbalances in oestrogen and progesterone levels can cause the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) to thicken more than usual, leading to heavy bleeding during the shedding process.
- Uterine Fibroids and Polyps: These non-cancerous growths in the uterus can lead to heavier or prolonged periods.
- Endometriosis: This condition, where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside it, can result in heavy bleeding, among other symptoms.
- Adenomyosis: Here, the endometrial tissue grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, causing pain and increased menstrual bleeding.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid problems, clotting disorders, and liver or kidney diseases, can also cause heavy menstrual bleeding.
When to Seek Help
It’s crucial to listen to your body. If you’re experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, especially if it’s accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and severe pain, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. These could be signs of more serious health issues that require prompt attention.
How Can I Help?
At my practice, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating heavy menstrual bleeding. By conducting a thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical examinations, and necessary diagnostic tests, we aim to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms. From there, we can tailor a treatment plan that suits your individual needs, whether it involves medication, lifestyle changes, or in some cases, surgery.
Understanding the root cause of your heavy menstrual bleeding is the first step towards finding relief. If you’re struggling with this condition, you’re in the right place for support and treatment. For detailed insights into managing heavy menstrual bleeding, please visit our dedicated page.
Remember, you’re not alone in this. With the right support and treatment, it’s possible to manage heavy menstrual bleeding effectively and improve your quality of life.
