Understanding Menorrhagia: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Menorrhagia?

Menorrhagia is the medical term for heavy menstrual bleeding. Many women experience some variation in their periods. However, menorrhagia means bleeding is so heavy that it affects daily life. For example, you may need to change pads or tampons every hour. Sometimes, heavy periods can cause tiredness or even anemia. According to the CDC, menorrhagia is a common problem, but it can be managed with the right care.

Common Symptoms of Menorrhagia

Not all heavy periods are menorrhagia. Still, certain signs can help you know if your bleeding is more than normal. For instance, you may notice these symptoms:

Bleeding that soaks through one or more pads or tampons every hour for several hours

Needing to use double sanitary protection

Waking up at night to change pads or tampons

Periods lasting longer than seven days

Passing large blood clots during your period

Feeling tired, weak, or short of breath

Sometimes, these symptoms can lead to low iron levels. As a result, you may feel even more tired or dizzy.

Causes of Menorrhagia

There are many causes of heavy menstrual bleeding. While some are simple, others may need medical attention. Here are some common causes of menorrhagia:

Hormone imbalances, such as too much estrogen or not enough progesterone

Uterine fibroids, which are non-cancerous growths in the uterus

Polyps, or small growths on the lining of the uterus

Bleeding disorders, like von Willebrand disease

Certain medications, including blood thinners

Other health conditions, such as thyroid problems

In some cases, doctors cannot find a clear cause. Even so, treatment for menorrhagia is available.

How Menorrhagia is Diagnosed

If you think you have menorrhagia, it is important to see a doctor. First, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may do a physical exam. To find the cause, doctors often use these tests:

Blood tests to check for anemia or bleeding problems

Ultrasound to look at the uterus and ovaries

Endometrial biopsy, which checks the lining of the uterus

Pap test to rule out other issues

With these steps, your doctor can make a diagnosis of menorrhagia and suggest the best treatment.

Treatment Options for Menorrhagia

Treatment for menorrhagia depends on the cause, your age, and your health. Sometimes, simple changes or medicines can help. In other cases, procedures may be needed. Common treatment options include:

Iron supplements to treat or prevent anemia

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce bleeding and pain

Hormonal treatments, such as birth control pills or hormone IUDs

Tranexamic acid, a medicine that helps blood clot

Procedures like endometrial ablation, which removes the lining of the uterus

Surgery, such as removing fibroids or, rarely, the uterus (hysterectomy)

Your doctor will help you choose the best treatment for menorrhagia based on your needs.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

While you may not always prevent menorrhagia, some steps can help you manage symptoms. For example, you can:

Keep a diary of your periods, noting flow and symptoms

Eat foods rich in iron, like leafy greens and beans

Stay hydrated and rest when needed

Use the right sanitary products for your flow

Talk to your doctor before taking new medicines

With these tips, you may feel more in control of your health.

When to See a Doctor

Heavy menstrual bleeding is not something you should ignore. If you notice any of these signs, see a doctor soon:

Bleeding that soaks through pads or tampons every hour

Periods lasting longer than seven days

Severe pain during your period

Feeling weak, dizzy, or short of breath

Passing large blood clots

Early care can help you find the cause and get the right treatment for menorrhagia.

For personalized advice on menorrhagia, consult a healthcare professional at Saraswati Hospital. They can guide you toward the best care for your needs.