What is Heavy Menstrual Flow?
Heavy menstrual flow, also known as menorrhagia, is characterized by excessively heavy or prolonged periods. It can significantly impact a woman's quality of life, causing discomfort and sometimes leading to anemia.
Causes of Heavy Menstrual Flow
There are various causes for heavy menstrual flow, including:Symptoms Associated with Heavy Menstrual Flow
Women with heavy menstrual flow may experience: Soaking through one or more sanitary pads or tampons every hour for several consecutive hours
Needing to use double sanitary protection
Waking up to change sanitary protection during the night
Bleeding for more than a week
Passing large blood clots
Restricting daily activities due to heavy menstrual flow
Symptoms of
anemia such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath
Heavy bleeding that requires changing sanitary protection every hour
Periods lasting longer than seven days
Severe pain during menstruation
Bleeding between periods or after menopause
Symptoms of anemia
Diagnosis of Heavy Menstrual Flow
To diagnose the cause of heavy menstrual flow, a gynecologist may recommend:Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause, severity, and individual patient factors. Common treatment options include:Preventive Measures
Although not all cases of heavy menstrual flow can be prevented, some measures might help reduce the risk: Maintain a healthy diet and weight
Manage stress effectively
Regular exercise
Avoid smoking
Regular gynecological check-ups
Conclusion
Heavy menstrual flow is a common issue that can impact daily life and health. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help manage this condition effectively. If you experience any concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice from a gynecologist.
