Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Diagnosis, Risk Factors & Relief Options

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (HMB) is a condition that affects many women globally. It is characterised by abnormally heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, which can significantly disrupt daily life. Dr. Saurabh Phadnis in London offers trusted, professional care to help women understand, manage, and treat this condition effectively. If you’re experiencing symptoms of HMB, it’s important to understand its causes, available treatments, and potential relief options.

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

What is Heavy Menstrual Bleeding?

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, refers to excessively heavy or prolonged menstrual periods. While a typical menstrual cycle lasts between 3 to 7 days, women suffering from HMB may experience bleeding that lasts longer than 7 days, or the flow may be much heavier than normal.

What Causes Heavy Menstrual Bleeding?

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding can occur due to various underlying causes. In some cases, hormonal imbalances or structural issues in the uterus may be the reason for heavy bleeding.

Common Causes of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Below are some of the common causes:

Hormonal Imbalance

The menstrual cycle is regulated by hormones, mainly estrogen and progesterone. A hormonal imbalance, particularly an excess of estrogen, can cause the uterine lining to thicken, leading to heavier bleeding. 

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop within the uterine walls. These fibroids can lead to excessive bleeding due to their size and location. 

Adenomyosis

This condition occurs when the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows into the muscle walls of the uterus. This can cause heavier than normal periods and can also lead to pain during menstruation.

Polyps

Endometrial polyps are small growths attached to the inner wall of the uterus, often caused by hormonal imbalances. 

Medical Conditions

Conditions like thyroid disorders, blood clotting disorders (e.g., von Willebrand disease), and certain cancers (such as uterine or cervical cancer) can lead to HMB. 

Medications

Certain medications, such as blood thinners, can increase the likelihood of heavy bleeding. 

Symptoms of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

While some degree of menstrual variation is normal, persistent heavy bleeding may indicate the presence of HMB.

  • Excessive Bleeding: Soaking through one or more pads or tampons every hour for several hours.
  • Extended Periods: Periods lasting more than 7 days.
  • Passing Blood Clots: Large blood clots larger than a quarter.
  • Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak due to blood loss.
  • Anemia: Symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and pale skin, caused by low iron levels due to prolonged bleeding.

How is Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Diagnosed?

Dr. Saurabh Phadnis in London, will typically use a variety of diagnostic methods to understand the cause and severity of the condition.

  1. Medical History Review
  2. Physical Examination
  3. Blood Tests
  4. Ultrasound
  5. Endometrial Biopsy

Treatment Options for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

The treatment choice will depend on the severity of the condition, underlying causes, and the patient’s overall health.

Hormonal Treatments

  • Birth Control Pills: Hormonal contraception can help regulate the menstrual cycle, reducing the heaviness of bleeding.
  • IUD (Intrauterine Device): A hormonal IUD can also help reduce bleeding by releasing a small amount of progestin into the uterus.
  • Hormone Therapy: Progesterone or estrogen therapy can help balance hormones and manage bleeding.

Non-hormonal Medications

  • Tranexamic Acid: This medication can help reduce menstrual bleeding by improving blood clotting.
  • NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs): These can help with pain and reduce bleeding by decreasing the production of prostaglandins, which are involved in menstrual flow.

Surgical Options

  • Dilation and Curettage (D&C)
  • Endometrial Ablation
  • Myomectomy
  • Hysterectomy

Prevention of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight can affect hormone levels and increase the likelihood of HMB.
  • Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity helps balance hormones and supports overall health.
  • Stress Management: High levels of stress can disrupt hormonal balance, so finding ways to manage stress can help reduce the risk.
  • Routine Check-ups: Regular visits to a healthcare provider are essential, especially for women with a family history of conditions like fibroids or hormonal disorders.

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing symptoms of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding, Dr. Saurabh Phadnis offers expert care in London to help diagnose, manage, and treat the condition effectively.

Whether you need advice on treatment options, or you’re seeking relief from heavy periods, you can count on professional and compassionate care to improve your quality of life. 

Make an Appointment for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

If you’re concerned about Heavy Menstrual Bleeding, private consultations are available with Dr. Saurabh Phadnis, leading Gynaecologist, Oncologist, Surgeon, and Co-Lead Colposcopist based in London; specialising in gynaecological cancer. You can visit his clinic or call directly to book an appointment and receive expert care, advice, and personalised treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the most common cause of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding?

The most common causes are hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, and polyps. These conditions can cause the uterine lining to shed excessively during menstruation.

If you are soaking through one or more pads or tampons every hour, or if your period lasts longer than 7 days, it may indicate heavy menstrual bleeding.

Yes, many women find relief from Heavy Menstrual Bleeding through hormonal therapy, non-hormonal medications, and lifestyle changes without needing surgery.

While not all causes are preventable, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, exercising regularly, and having regular medical check-ups can help reduce the risk.

In some cases, it can be a symptom of underlying issues like fibroids, adenomyosis, or even cancer. It’s important to seek medical attention if heavy bleeding persists.

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