How Can I Manage Heavy Periods?

Heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia, can significantly impact your quality of life. Fortunately, various treatments are available to manage this condition. Here’s a comprehensive guide on managing heavy periods and the options available at the Women’s Center of Athens.

Understanding Heavy Periods

Heavy menstrual bleeding is defined as losing more than 80 milliliters of blood per cycle or having periods that last longer than seven days. Symptoms include:

• Soaking through one or more tampons or pads every hour.
• Needing to use double sanitary protection.
• Experiencing prolonged bleeding.

Causes of Heavy Periods

Several factors can cause heavy menstrual bleeding:

• Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and endometriosis.
• Uterine Fibroids and Polyps: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus can lead to heavy bleeding.
• Bleeding Disorders: Such as von Willebrand disease.
• Certain Medications: Blood thinners and hormonal medications.
• Other Medical Conditions: Including liver or kidney disease, pelvic inflammatory disease, and certain cancers.

Treatment Options

Managing heavy periods often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes surgical procedures.

1. Medications

   • Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like ibuprofen can help reduce menstrual blood loss and alleviate cramps.
   • Hormonal Therapies: Birth control pills, patches or vaginal rings, hormonal IUDs, and other hormonal treatments can regulate periods and reduce bleeding.
   • Tranexamic Acid: This medication helps reduce blood loss by preventing the breakdown of blood clots.
   • Iron Supplements: If heavy periods cause iron deficiency anemia, iron supplements can help restore iron levels.

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures

   • Dilation and Curettage (D&C): The cervix is dilated, and the uterine lining is scraped to reduce bleeding.
   • Endometrial Ablation: The lining of the uterus is destroyed using heat, radiofrequency, or other methods, reducing or stopping menstrual flow.
   • Uterine Artery Embolization: This procedure shrinks fibroids by blocking their blood supply.
   • Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus.

3. Lifestyle Changes

   • Diet and Exercise: Maintaining a healthy diet rich in iron and regular exercise can help manage symptoms.
   • Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help maintain blood volume.
   • Heat Therapy: Using a heating pad can alleviate cramps.

4. Surgical Options

   • Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, which ends menstrual periods and the ability to become pregnant, is considered when other treatments fail or are not suitable.

When to See a Doctor

It’s important to consult with a gynecologist if heavy periods are affecting your life. Seek medical advice if you:

• Experience severe pain during periods.
• Bleed between periods or after sex.
• Feel tired or short of breath often.
• Have heavy periods accompanied by other symptoms such as pain when urinating or during intercourse.

Key Takeaways

• Early Diagnosis and Treatment: Early intervention can prevent complications and improve quality of life.
• Comprehensive Care: At the Women’s Center of Athens, our team offers a range of treatments tailored to your individual needs.
• Patient Support: We provide ongoing support and management plans to help you navigate this condition effectively.

For more detailed information or to schedule a consultation, visit our website or call us at 706-227-8999. By understanding your options and working with your healthcare provider, you can effectively manage heavy periods and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.