Heavy menstrual bleeding or menorrhagia is a common issue that many women experience at some point in their lives. It can affect a woman’s daily life. Understanding the causes of heavy menstrual bleeding and the various treatments available can help manage the condition effectively.
Causes of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Common causes of heavy menstrual bleeding are as follows.
- Hormonal Imbalance:
Hormonal imbalances, particularly involving estrogen and progesterone, are one of the most common causes of heavy bleeding. If the balance between these hormones is disrupted, the uterine lining may become thick, leading to heavy periods. Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid problems can result in hormonal imbalances that cause menorrhagia.
- Uterine Fibroids:
These are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. The growths can cause heavy, prolonged bleeding during menstruation. They can also lead to pain and pressure in the pelvic region. Consult the leading gynecologist if you suffer from this condition.
- Endometriosis:
It is a condition in which tissue similar to the uterus’ lining grows outside of the uterus. This can cause severe menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and even infertility. Women with endometriosis may experience heavy periods accompanied by significant cramping and discomfort.
- Adenomyosis:
It occurs when the tissue that lines the uterus grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. This condition can result in very heavy periods, severe cramping, and bloating. Women suffering from adenomyosis may also experience pain during intercourse and chronic pelvic pain.
- Polyps:
Endometrial polyps are growths that occur in the uterine lining. They are typically non-cancerous but can lead to heavy bleeding, especially between periods. Polyps are often linked to hormonal imbalances and can be removed with surgery if they are causing excessive bleeding.
Treatments for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
The treatments for heavy menstrual bleeding are listed below.
- Hormonal Therapy:
Birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, or hormone replacement therapy can help reduce bleeding by stabilizing the uterine lining. In cases of hormonal imbalances, medications that regulate estrogen and progesterone levels may be recommended.
- Non-Hormonal Medication:
Non-hormonal treatments like tranexamic acid or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce heavy bleeding and control pain.
- Surgical Options:
For women with fibroids, polyps, or adenomyosis, surgical options may be necessary. Procedures such as a hysteroscopy, where the doctor uses a small camera to remove polyps or fibroids may be recommended. In some cases, a myomectomy, a procedure to remove fibroids, may be performed. In severe cases, a hysterectomy (uterus removal) may be suggested if other treatments are unsuccessful.
Conclusion
Heavy menstrual bleeding can be a disruptive and uncomfortable condition, but with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, it is manageable. If you experience heavy menstrual bleeding, you can consult Dr. Shivanjali Nayak, the best female gynecologist in Newtown and Rajarhat to explore your options and find a treatment that works best for you.