Understanding Menorrhagia
Menorrhagia refers to severe or protracted bleeding during periods. This may be characterized by a menstruation cycle lasting more than 7 days, requiring an additional tampon or sanitary napkin after less than two hours, or releasing huge clots. It could be related to a variety of conditions. These involve uterine disorders, hormonal issues, and other ailments. Abnormal uterine bleeding (menstrual bleeding) has a significant influence on women's quality of life, productivity, and medical expenses. Heavy monthly blood levels may disrupt the typical activities and may even result in anemia (lack of hemoglobin, an important component of our blood). Heavy periods could be a transient or permanent problem.
Causes of Menorrhagia
Heavy bleeding can be caused by hormonal imbalances or uterine disorders. It may also be caused by other diseases or bleeding issues. Hormonal issues include such as an imbalance of hormones, complications with the female reproductive system including fibroids (not malignant), cancer, pregnancy issues (such as miscarriages or an ectopic pregnancy) and / or use of an intrauterine device. Heavy periods can be caused by endometriosis, endometrial polyps, endometrial hyperplasia, adenomyosis, fibroids, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). While PCOS typically causes periods that are irregular, thickening of the uterine lining can also result in lengthy periods.
Diagnosis
The following key tests are done to identify the presence of Menorrhagia:
- Medical history and period pattern: The healthcare professional will inquire about your medical history and periods.
- Physical examination: You will also have a physical examination, which will include a pelvic exam.
- Track of periods and amount of bleeding: You may need to keep track of your periods and the number of pads or tampons you use for several months. Evaluations of the blood can help detect any unusual findings.
- A Pap test (cells obtained from the cervix and studied): This can be used to detect malignant abnormalities, infections, or swelling.
- Ultrasonography: It is used to detect fibroids or other issues inside the uterus. In the worst-case situation, a biopsy may be performed on cancerous or diseased tissues.
How to identify Menorrhagia
If you want to identify this condition, then you may look for the below mentioned signs:
- You must replace your pad or tampon every 1 to 2 hours because it is saturated, bleed for more than 7 days.
- Experience bleeding or spotting in between periods
- Symptoms include clots that are the measurement of a quarter or bigger and intense, painful cramps during menstruation.
- To manage your menstrual flow, you will need to double up on pads.
- Replace pads or tampons during the night.
- Have menstrual periods that last more than seven days.
- Have a monthly period with blood clots the size of one quarter or more.
- Have a high menstrual flow that prevents you from conducting typical activities.
- Experiencing persistent pain in the lower area of the stomach during your periods.
- Are fatigued, lacking energy, or short of breath.
Treatment
Birth control tablets may prevent ovulation and may cause a lighter menstrual flow. Some oral drugs include ibuprofen and naproxen sodium, which are available over the counter. They can help to alleviate cramps and menstrual blood flow. Hormonal IUDs that release progestin thin the uterine lining, perhaps reducing blood flow and cramps. Tranexamic acid is an oral medicine that stimulates blood coagulation, potentially slowing blood flow.
General tips:
- Keep hydration: If you’re bleeding heavily, keep yourself hydrated by consuming 4-6 extra glasses of water per day, and think about using an electrolyte solution.
- Include iron-rich diet sources in your meals: Iron-rich meals include liver, steak, and sardines, as well as plant-based options like lentils, spinach, and white beans. This allows one to avoid dehydration and lowers the possibility of iron deficiency anemia.