Heavy Periods Specialist

When should I be concerned about heavy periods?

Some women have a heavy period now and then, but if you consistently have heavy bleeding, you should consult a physician. The following signs can indicate that your menstrual flow is abnormally heavy:

• A period that lasts longer than seven days
• Bleeding through one or more tampons or pads every hour for several hours
• Needing to change pads or tampons during the night
• Blood clots larger than a quarter in menstrual blood

These symptoms could be a sign of a serious health condition. If you have one or more of these signs, schedule an appointment with an experienced gynecologist at the Center for Women’s Health for an accurate diagnosis.

What causes heavy periods?

Some of the most common causes of heavy periods include:

• Uterine fibroids
• Uterine polyps
• Ovulation problems
• Blood clotting disorders
• Gynecologic cancers
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease

Blood loss from heavy menstrual bleeding can also cause anemia or an iron deficiency. Severe anemia can have adverse effects on lung and heart function.

How does a doctor diagnose the cause of heavy periods?

The skilled gynecologists at the Center for Women’s Health have extensive experience evaluating heavy bleeding. They begin by reviewing your health history and discussing your menstrual cycle and symptoms with you. 

Next, your provider performs a pelvic exam and orders lab tests to screen for conditions like STDs, pregnancy, and other possible causes of heavy bleeding. They may also recommend additional diagnostics, such as:

• Ultrasound
• Hysteroscopy
• Endometrial biopsy
• Sonohysterography
• MRI

Once your physician has determined the root cause of your heavy menstrual flow, they discuss all treatment options with you in detail.

How are heavy periods treated?

Treatment depends on the cause of your heavy periods, your age, overall health, and other individual factors. Treatment for heavy periods may include:

• Hormonal birth control
• Hormone therapy, such as BioTE® pellet therapy
• Prescription medications
• Endometrial ablation

There are several procedures available to treat uterine fibroids, including uterine artery embolization, hysteroscopy, and myomectomy. 

In severe cases, a hysterectomy, in which some or all of your reproductive organs are removed, could be the best option for ending your heavy periods.

Schedule an evaluation for heavy menstrual flow by calling the Center for Women's Health, or making an appointment online for the clinic nearest you.