Excessive and Frequent Menstruation
If you’re experiencing heavy and frequent periods, you’re not alone. Many women face this common concern, which can disrupt daily life and affect overall well-being. At Advanced Women’s Care, we understand how challenging this can be, and our expert providers are here to help you identify the cause and explore effective treatments. In this guide, we’ll explain what constitutes excessive and frequent menstruation, possible causes, and how our compassionate team can support you in finding relief.
Excessive menstruation (also known as menorrhagia) is characterized by heavy bleeding that lasts longer than usual or requires you to change sanitary protection more frequently than every 1-2 hours. In contrast, frequent menstruation refers to periods that occur more often than the typical 21-35-day cycle. If your menstrual cycle is irregular or you’re bleeding heavily for prolonged periods, it’s important to seek medical advice.
Signs of Excessive and Frequent Menstruation
Pay attention to the following symptoms that may indicate excessive or frequent menstruation:
- Heavy bleeding: Soaking through pads or tampons within an hour or two.
- Long periods: Menstrual bleeding lasting more than 7 days.
- Frequent periods: Menstrual cycles shorter than 21 days.
- Blood clots: Passing large clots of blood during your period.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak due to blood loss.
- Painful periods: Experiencing severe cramping or pelvic discomfort.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a provider who specializes in women’s health to determine the underlying cause and find an appropriate solution.
Potential Causes of Excessive and Frequent Menstruation
There are several reasons why a woman may experience heavy or frequent periods. Common causes include:
Hormonal Imbalances: An imbalance in estrogen and progesterone can lead to heavy or irregular bleeding. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or perimenopause often cause these imbalances.
Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, and pain.
Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, leading to heavy periods and pelvic pain.
Adenomyosis: A condition where the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, causing heavy and painful periods.
Intrauterine Device (IUD): Some types of IUDs can cause increased bleeding, especially in the first few months after insertion.
Blood Disorders: Conditions like von Willebrand disease or bleeding disorders can contribute to excessive menstrual bleeding.
Cancer: Although rare, uterine or cervical cancer can cause abnormal bleeding patterns.
How Can Advanced Women’s Care Help?
At Advanced Women’s Care, we provide a comprehensive approach to managing excessive and frequent menstruation. Our team of experienced gynecologists and women’s health specialists will work closely with you to determine the root cause of your symptoms. We offer various diagnostic tests, including ultrasounds, hormone level assessments, and biopsy procedures, to accurately diagnose the condition. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of your symptoms. These may include:
- Medications: Hormonal treatments, birth control pills, or IUDs to regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce bleeding.
- Surgical Procedures: Options such as endometrial ablation or myomectomy to remove fibroids or treat other structural issues.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Dietary changes, stress management, and exercise may help manage symptoms, especially in cases related to hormonal imbalances or PCOS.
If you’re struggling with excessive or frequent menstruation, don’t wait to get the help you need. At Advanced Women’s Care, we prioritize your health and well-being, providing personalized care to help you manage and treat your symptoms. Our team of compassionate providers is here to guide you through every step of the process, from diagnosis to treatment, ensuring the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable life.