Heavy Periods

What is Menorrhagia?

The medical term for heavy periods is menorrhagia.  It affects many women but can be difficult to diagnose.  One person's idea of a "normal" amount of blood loss may be another's description of menorrhagia.  

Menorrhagia can be caused (among many other things) by:

  • An IUD
  • Fibroids
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Obesity
  • Irregular periods
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Ovarian & uterine cancer
  • Adenomyosis

 

Menorrhagia can be identified by:

  • Passing large clots during your period
  • Moderate to severe cramping
  • Anemia
  • Infertility

 

Menorrhagia can be diagnosed with a pelvic exam, a Pap smear, and occasionally a biopsy of the uterine lining.  In addition, blood work, ultrasound, and other office procedures may be used to identify causes for heavy bleeding.

Menorrhagia can be treated in a number of ways, including oral contraceptives, hormonal treatments, medications, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery.