Title
Menorrhagia
Title
Menorrhagia Overview
Menorrhagia is the medical term for menstrual periods with abnormally heavy or prolonged bleeding. Although heavy menstrual bleeding is a common concern, most women don't experience blood loss severe enough to be defined as menorrhagia. On average, menstrual flow occurs every 28 days and lasts for five days.
Symptoms
Symptoms of menorrhagia include menstrual bleeding lasting more than seven days; unusually heavy bleeding (soaking through a sanitary napkin or tampon every hour) ;menstrual flow requiring change of sanitary protection during the night; menstrual flow including large clots; menstrual flow interfering with lifestyle; fatigue and/or shortness of breath (symptoms of anemia).
Causes
In some cases the cause of menorrhagia is unknown. However, many conditions have been known to be associated with menorrhagia. These include menstrual cycle hormone dysfunction (imbalance); cervical or endometrial polyps; uterine fibroids; infection (pelvic infections); blood-clotting disorders; anticoagulant medications (blood thinners); anti-inflammatory medications (large amounts over a long period of time); liver, kidney, or thyroid disease; problems with an intrauterine device (IUD); ectopic pregnancy; ovarian cysts; chronic medical conditions; anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory medications; cancer of the uterus or cervix (rare); vaginal injury from trauma or sexual abuse; complications from pregnancy, such as miscarriage
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on symptoms and medical history. A physical examination including pelvic exam will be done as part of the evaluation and a lot of tests may be ordered.
Treatment
Treatment of menorrhagia will depend on the underlying cause. Women who experience persistent excessive bleeding should discuss with their healthcare provider whether to take iron supplements to prevent anemia. If there is no medical disorder causing your menorrhagia, a health professional prescribe medications. Surgical procedures may also be done.
Prevention
For most women there are no specific steps for prevention. However, if menorrhagia is caused by a medication, the condition can be prevented by discontinuing use of this medicine. Menstrual discomfort is better treated with pain relievers
Complications
Excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding can lead to other medical conditions such as anemia and severe pain.
Risks
People at greatest risk for menorrhagia include adolescent girls who have started menstruation within the last 12-18 months; women approaching menopause; women with hereditary bleeding disorders; women who are obese.