Menorrhagia

What is menorrhagia?

Menorrhagia is heavy menstrual bleeding. It’s a common problem, but concerning. Signs and symptoms of menorrhagia include:

• Menstrual bleeding that lasts more than 7 days
• Soaking through a tampon or menstrual pad within hours
• Needing to wear more the one menstrual pad
• Having to change pads or tampons at night
• Having large quarter-sized blood clots during your period

Heavy bleeding may also cause anemia, making you feel tired and cold. In severe cases, anemia may cause shortness of breath or heart problems.

If your heavy bleeding affects your ability to go about your daily life, then you need to schedule a consultation at the Women's Health Domain.

What causes menorrhagia?

Many gynecological conditions cause menorrhagia. You may have heavy menstrual bleeding from:

• Endometriosis
• Fibroids
• Uterine polyps
• Perimenopause (transition to menopause)
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Endometrial cancer
• Bleeding disorder

Certain medications or birth control methods may also cause menorrhagia, such as an intrauterine device (IUD) or blood-thinning medication.

In some cases, the cause of menorrhagia is unknown.

What happens during a menorrhagia evaluation?

When you visit the Women's Health Domain for menorrhagia, you can expect a comprehensive, patient-centered exam. The state-of-the-art obstetrics and gynecology practice uses advanced diagnostic tools to fully understand your overall health and the cause of your heavy bleeding.

During your exam, your OB/GYN asks detailed questions about your menstrual cycle and symptoms. They also review your medical and gynecological history, as well as your family history, and perform a physical and pelvic exam.

The team also runs diagnostic tests such as blood work, urinalysis, or an ultrasound test. 

What are some treatments for menorrhagia?

Treatment for your menorrhagia depends on the cause. The team customizes your plan to best meet your needs and reduce symptoms.

Treatment for menorrhagia might include:

• Hormonal contraception
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist for fibroids
• Tranexamic acid to reduce bleeding
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Nutritional supplements

In some cases, the team may recommend a procedure to treat your menorrhagia or the cause of the bleeding, this might include ablation (destroying the endometrial tissue), myomectomy (removing fibroids), or hysterectomy (removing uterus).

Your menstrual cycle can vary and even change throughout your life, but you don’t have to endure excessively heavy bleeding. To find out more about menorrhagia, call the Women's Health Domain or schedule an appointment online today.