Unusually Heavy Menstrual Bleeding – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Unusually Heavy Menstrual Bleeding – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we understand that unusually heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, can interfere with daily life and may indicate an underlying health condition. While variations in menstrual flow are normal, excessive bleeding that lasts longer than usual or requires frequent pad or tampon changes may require medical evaluation. Identifying the cause is essential for effective treatment and maintaining reproductive health.

Causes of Unusually Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Several factors can contribute to excessive menstrual bleeding, including:

• Hormonal Imbalances –

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – Irregular ovulation can lead to heavy or prolonged bleeding.
  • Thyroid Disorders – Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect menstrual cycles.
  • Perimenopause – Hormonal fluctuations before menopause can lead to irregular and heavy periods.

• Uterine Conditions –

  • Fibroids – Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause prolonged and heavy bleeding.
  • Endometriosis – Tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, leading to heavy and painful periods.
  • Adenomyosis – The uterine lining grows into the muscle wall, causing heavy and prolonged menstruation.
  • Uterine Polyps – Small, benign growths in the uterine lining that can contribute to abnormal bleeding.

• Blood Disorders and Clotting Issues –

  • Von Willebrand Disease or Other Clotting Disorders – Can lead to excessive menstrual bleeding.
  • Low Platelet Count (Thrombocytopenia) – Affects blood clotting and increases bleeding tendencies.

• Medications and Medical Conditions –

  • Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants) – Medications that prevent clotting may contribute to heavier menstrual flow.
  • Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) – Some non-hormonal IUDs, such as copper IUDs, may cause heavier bleeding.
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) – An infection of the reproductive organs that may cause abnormal bleeding.
  • Liver or Kidney Disease – Chronic conditions that can affect hormone metabolism and blood clotting.

• Pregnancy-Related Causes –

  • Miscarriage or Ectopic Pregnancy – Can cause heavy bleeding outside of a normal menstrual cycle.

Diagnosis of Unusually Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

A thorough evaluation at Emirates Hospitals Group is essential to determine the underlying cause. Diagnostic methods may include:

• Medical History and Physical Examination – Assessing menstrual patterns, symptoms, and medical history.
• Blood Tests – Checking for anemia, hormone levels, thyroid function, and clotting disorders.
• Pelvic Ultrasound – Evaluating the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures for fibroids, polyps, or other abnormalities.
• Endometrial Biopsy – Collecting a tissue sample from the uterine lining to check for abnormal cells.
• Hysteroscopy – A minimally invasive procedure to examine the inside of the uterus for polyps or fibroids.

Treatment for Unusually Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

The appropriate treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Medications –

  • Hormonal birth control (pills, patches, or hormonal IUDs) to regulate menstrual flow.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce bleeding and relieve pain.
  • Iron supplements to prevent or treat anemia.
  • Medications to improve blood clotting in cases of bleeding disorders.

• Minimally Invasive Procedures –

  • Endometrial Ablation – A procedure to remove or thin the uterine lining to reduce bleeding.
  • Uterine Artery Embolization – Used for fibroids to shrink their size and reduce bleeding.
  • Hysteroscopic Removal of Fibroids or Polyps – Removing growths inside the uterus to regulate bleeding.

• Surgical Options –

  • Myomectomy – Surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus.
  • Hysterectomy – A last-resort option for severe cases when other treatments are ineffective.

If you are experiencing unusually heavy menstrual bleeding, seeking expert care at Emirates Hospitals Group can help determine the cause and provide effective treatment options for long-term menstrual health.

Related Treatments

• Platelet Disorders
• Endometriosis Clinic