Heavy periods can be more than an inconvenience. If you regularly experience very heavy or prolonged bleeding, need to change sanitary protection frequently or find that your periods interfere with work, sleep or everyday activities, it may be time to speak to a healthcare professional.
But when should you see a gynaecologist about heavy periods?
What counts as a heavy period?
Every woman’s menstrual cycle is different, and what is normal for one person may not be normal for another. However, periods that have become significantly heavier, last longer than usual or are affecting your quality of life may indicate abnormal uterine bleeding.
You may notice that you need to change pads or tampons much more frequently than before, experience large blood clots, bleed for longer than expected or feel unusually tired or weak during or after your period.
Heavy bleeding can also contribute to iron-deficiency anaemia, which may cause symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, dizziness or headaches.
What can cause heavy periods?
There are many potential causes of heavy menstrual bleeding. These include hormonal changes, fibroids, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome and certain bleeding disorders. In some cases, problems affecting the lining of the womb can also cause abnormal bleeding.
Fibroids are a particularly common cause of heavy periods. These non-cancerous growths can develop in or around the womb and vary considerably in size and location.
When should you see a gynaecologist?
You do not have to simply put up with heavy periods. If your bleeding is regularly disrupting your life, has become noticeably heavier or is accompanied by significant pain or other unusual symptoms, it is worth seeking medical advice.
A gynaecologist can investigate the underlying cause rather than simply treating the bleeding itself. Depending on your symptoms, this may involve blood tests, an ultrasound scan, MRI or hysteroscopy.
What treatments are available?
Treatment depends on what is causing the heavy bleeding and your individual circumstances, including whether you are hoping to have children in the future. Options can include medication, hormonal treatments and, where appropriate, minimally invasive or surgical procedures.
At Gynae Solution, Mr Jafaru Abu provides specialist assessment and treatment for menstrual disorders, including heavy periods and menorrhagia. The aim is to understand the cause of your symptoms and discuss treatment options suited to your individual needs.
If heavy periods are affecting your quality of life, you don’t simply have to accept them as normal. A specialist assessment can help you understand why they are happening and what can be done.
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