Both young and older women can suffer from excessive bleeding during menstruation. The average amount of blood lost by a woman during menstruation is between 30-40ml. In case of excessive bleeding, this can even go beyond 60ml. This condition may be caused by a number of factors including hormonal imbalances, fibroids and pelvic inflammatory disease. Tip: Heavy bleeding can cause weakness and hence it is essential to get plenty of rest.
Birth control pills can be used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding
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Hormones in the form of birth control pills can be very effective in treating heavy menstrual bleeding. The oestrogen in these pills promotes clotting thus, reduces the menstrual blood flow. This can also shorten the course of your periods and relieve the pain caused by bleeding. Birth control is usually prescribed in case when heavy menstrual bleeding is caused by hormonal imbalance or von Willebrand disease. Tip: Do not self-medicate with birth control pills, but consult a doctor to first understand the cause of heavy bleeding.
Heavy menstrual bleeding can cause anaemia
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Heavy menstrual bleeding can reduce iron level significantly thus increasing the risk of anaemia. As a result of this, the haemoglobin level may also drop thus reducing the blood?s ability to carry oxygen to various parts of the body. Symptoms of anaemia caused by heavy bleeding include pale skin, fatigue and weakness. In severe cases, it can also cause shortness of breath and headaches. Tip: If you suffer from heavy bleeding, have a diet that is rich in iron by including foods like spinach and tomatoes.
Common symptoms of heavy menstrual bleeding include
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Heavier than normal bleeding and a longer period are the most characteristic symptoms of this condition. While periods for most women last 5-7 days, in the case of heavy bleeding they may last much longer. The bleeding may also be heavy enough to require a change of tampon or pads every 2-3 hours. This bleeding may also increase at night. Tip: Oral contraceptives, iron supplements and hormonal IUDs can help manage heavy bleeding.
Heavy menstrual bleeding can be treated surgically
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In serious cases, heavy menstrual bleeding can be treated surgically. This form of treatment is usually prescribed in cases where hormonal pills are not effective. Surgical treatment options for heavy bleeding includes dilation and curettage, uterine artery embolization, endometrial ablation and a hysterectomy. Except for the last procedure, these may be performed as outpatient procedures. Tip: Treatment for heavy bleeding depends on the cause of heavy bleeding so it is essential to get tested to understand the cause before beginning a form of treatment.
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