[19F] With continuous menstrual bleeding and associated symptoms

Question

Was also on the birth control implant in her arm when the bleeding non stop started and when she had that removed she started the birth control shot that is every 3 months. After she started that shot she gained 100 plus pounds in less than 3 months. Prior to this she had always struggled to gain weight and weighed 115 lbs and she now weights 230lbs. She stopped taking the shot after the 2nd dose and then they tested her thyroid and found that her thyroid levels were low. They put her on thyroid medication and straight estrogen only medication that stopped her period for about 1 month then it started and hasn't stopped again. No doctors can seem to figure out what is wrong. They even did an internal ultrasound.

Patient Description

A 19-year-old female reports experiencing continuous menstrual bleeding for the past five years, with no breaks longer than a day. The patient also reports acne, significant weight gain, low thyroid function, depression, and anxiety. She is currently taking Levothyroxine at a dosage of 20 micrograms once daily. There are no other pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible conditions that could explain your symptoms:

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. It can cause prolonged or infrequent menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne, and obesity. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. Treatment often involves lifestyle changes and medications to regulate periods and manage symptoms.

    • Treatment: Lifestyle changes such as weight loss, exercise, and a healthy diet can help manage symptoms. Medications like hormonal birth control can regulate periods, and other medications can help with symptoms like acne and excess hair growth.
  • Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. Symptoms can include prolonged menstrual bleeding, weight gain, depression, and fatigue. Since you are already on Levothyroxine, it might be necessary to adjust your dosage.

    • Treatment: Regular monitoring of thyroid levels and adjusting the dosage of thyroid medication as needed.
  • Endometrial Hyperplasia: This condition involves the thickening of the uterine lining and can cause prolonged menstrual bleeding. It is often due to an imbalance of estrogen and progesterone.

    • Treatment: Hormonal treatments such as progestin can help manage the condition. In some cases, a procedure to remove the thickened lining may be necessary.
  • Depression and Anxiety: These mental health conditions can sometimes exacerbate physical symptoms and make it difficult to manage other health issues.

    • Treatment: Counseling, therapy, and medications can help manage depression and anxiety. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a healthy diet can also be beneficial.

What you can do

  1. Consult a Doctor: It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider to get a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They may order blood tests, ultrasounds, or other diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.
  2. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your menstrual cycle, including the duration and intensity of bleeding, as well as any other symptoms you experience. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.
  3. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and manage stress to help alleviate some symptoms. Weight management can be particularly beneficial if you have PCOS or hypothyroidism.
  4. Medication Adherence: Continue taking your Levothyroxine as prescribed and discuss any concerns about your dosage with your doctor.

What you should look out for

  • Severe Symptoms: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, very heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad or tampon every hour), dizziness, or fainting.
  • Mental Health: If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seek help immediately from a mental health professional or call emergency services.
  • Regular Check-ups: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your condition and adjust treatments as necessary.

Remember, while this information can help guide you, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

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7 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Common symptoms of PCOS include irregular or prolonged menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne, obesity, and sometimes difficulty with fertility. It is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age.


How does hypothyroidism affect menstrual cycles?

Hypothyroidism can lead to prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding due to the underproduction of thyroid hormones, which can disrupt the balance of reproductive hormones. It may also cause fatigue, weight gain, and depression.


What lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of PCOS and hypothyroidism?

Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress can help manage symptoms of both PCOS and hypothyroidism. Weight management is particularly important, as it can improve symptoms and overall health.


What should I do if I experience severe menstrual bleeding or mental health issues?

If you experience severe menstrual bleeding, such as soaking through a pad or tampon every hour, or if you have severe pain, dizziness, or fainting, seek immediate medical attention. For mental health issues, especially if you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, contact a mental health professional or emergency services immediately.


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Arora (Bot)#28060

7 mo ago

Thank you for providing more details about your medical history. The significant weight gain and continuous bleeding after starting and stopping different forms of birth control, along with your low thyroid function, add complexity to your case. Here are a few additional considerations based on this new information:

  1. Hormonal Imbalance: The birth control methods you used could have significantly affected your hormonal balance, contributing to both the weight gain and continuous bleeding. Hormonal fluctuations can sometimes take time to stabilize even after stopping the medication.

  2. Thyroid Function: Since you have low thyroid function, it's crucial to regularly monitor your thyroid levels and adjust your Levothyroxine dosage as needed. Thyroid imbalances can exacerbate menstrual irregularities and weight changes.

  3. Endometrial Hyperplasia: The continuous bleeding and weight gain could also be related to endometrial hyperplasia, which involves the thickening of the uterine lining. This condition can sometimes be challenging to diagnose and may require further investigation.

  4. PCOS: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome remains a possibility, given your symptoms of weight gain, acne, and menstrual irregularities. PCOS can be difficult to diagnose and often requires a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be beneficial to consult with a specialist, such as an endocrinologist or a gynecologist, who can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan. Keeping a detailed record of your symptoms and any changes in your condition will also be helpful for your healthcare providers.

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