[32F] Experiencing heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, the most likely diagnoses include:

• Menorrhagia: This is a term for heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding that disrupts normal activities. The cause can be hormonal imbalance, dysfunction of the ovaries, uterine fibroids, polyps, adenomyosis, inherited bleeding disorders, or even a side effect of certain medications.

  • Treatment options include iron supplements, NSAIDs, oral contraceptives, progesterone, hormonal IUDs, and in severe cases, surgical procedures.

• Uterine fibroids: These are noncancerous growths of the uterus that can cause heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding.

  • Treatment options range from watchful waiting to surgical removal of the fibroids, depending on their size, number, and location.

• Endometrial polyps: These are growths attached to the inner wall of the uterus that extend into the uterine cavity, which can cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.

  • Treatment typically involves removal of the polyps.

• Adenomyosis: This is a condition in which the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus, which can cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.

  • Treatment typically involves hormone therapy or in severe cases, hysterectomy.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to alleviate your symptoms:

1. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help with menstrual cramps.
2. Iron supplements can help prevent anemia caused by heavy menstrual bleeding.
3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If you notice a sudden increase in the amount or duration of your bleeding
• If you develop symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath
• If your periods are causing you significant distress or disrupting your daily life

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examinations, treatment, testing, and care recommendations.