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What menstrual products are right for you?

Exploring Alternative Menstrual Products: What’s Right for You?

This entry was posted in Health FAQs and tagged , on by .

It’s no secret that periods can be inconvenient. Plus, beyond the typical period and its symptoms, accompanying painful health conditions can impact your life more than just one week out of the month. Not to mention, you’ll also need to fork out cash on a consistent basis just to address the bleeding aspect of menstruation – and many of the standard options aren’t all that good for your body.

If you’re a person with a period facing yet another of the nearly 500 periods you’ll likely have in your life, you know just how imperfect the standard options can be. But, did you know that tampons and pads are far from the only period solution available? Deviating from typical period products to an alternative that works for you may have positive results on your life, your health, and your wallet.

Exploring Menstrual Products: the Basics

Exploring Menstrual Product Basics

Of course, most of us think of pads or tampons when it comes to containing menstrual bleeding. These have improved over the years, and there are now multiple different options as far as size, absorbency level, and even some that use minimal packaging materials or biodegradable products. However, as prevalent and common as these goods are, they are not without their potential harms and downsides.

Disposable Sanitary Pads

Pads, also called sanitary napkins, are disposable and absorbent protective pads that you can easily stick to your underwear with an adhesive backing. They’re available in a variety of lengths and absorbencies and are meant to be changed every couple of hours. Some even come with wings or other features meant to help them stay in place (a marked improvement from the original belt and pad combo women used before the invention of the adhesive backing).

However, many pads have fragrances or other chemicals that can irritate your skin or affect your pH levels. They can also shift over time, and have a tendency to be bulky under clothing and for athletic activity. Disposable pads also aren’t an option when swimming. Disposable menstrual napkins also contain plastics and bleached fibers, and often use excessive packaging that is not eco-friendly.

Tampons

Tampons are dense, cylindrical units of material, usually made of either cotton, rayon, or a mixture like that used in pads. They are inserted into the vaginal canal and absorb blood internally until their replacement every few hours. They’re available in a variety of absorbencies and are discreet, compact, and convenient for swimming, exercising, and sports.

However, they are sometimes uncomfortable and may be drying or irritating to the vagina. Also, like pads, they are also a large contributor to landfills across the country, and while some environmentally conscious options exist (e.g., organic materials, plastic-free applicators), tampons still pile up in the ecosystem and take a very long time to degrade. Some materials are far from natural, including bleached cotton and rayon.

Most notably, tampons carry the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) if left in place too long. While this is a rare condition, it is extremely dangerous and can be life-threatening. To avoid your chances of suffering TSS, avoid high absorbency tampons and do not wear them for extended durations, including when going to bed.

The Ecological and Biological Harm of Traditional, Single-Use Menstrual Products

Menstruating individuals, who have little choice in this bodily process, will spend close to $13,000 on products for their period on average during their lifetime. This is not a negligible expense by any means. Worse, the constant need to throw away and replace means menstruating individuals are consigned to this expense for decades on end.

The harm isn’t just financial. On average, each person throws out more than 10,000 single-use products over the course of their life, adding to the yearly total of 200,000+ tons of plastic waste from these products. The majority of traditional period products include plastic and are not biodegradable. These disposable goods are estimated to take around 500 to 800 years to fully decompose.

In addition, the menstrual hygiene products that are the most readily available to the public, such as tampons and pads, frequently contain harmful residual chemicals and other agents. These include bleach from whitening the material, dyes, leftover pesticides and toxic metals from cotton cultivation, phthalates to strengthen plastic, odor-neutralizers, and fragrance.

The chemicals included in these products can be damaging to water sources and take centuries to break down. So, imagine the risk they pose when inserted during menstruation by the 50-86 percent of women in the US who report using tampons. These chemicals are potentially irritating and chemically impactful during direct contact with pads, and the vagina’s permeability can allow harmful agents to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream during tampon use.

Alternative Menstrual Products to Tampons and Pads

Alternative Menstrual Products

Certainly, the traditional period product options are readily available, easy to purchase, straightforward to use, and have an extensive presence in our culture. However, as we know, these limited options aren’t always the best for the environment or our bodies. That’s why it’s worth learning about sustainable menstruation and alternative period products.

Sustainable menstruation entails consideration of the adverse effects disposable products – even those with better or more biodegradable materials – can have in contributing to landfills and oceans. While it’s not always convenient or a viable option to venture into alternative, sustainable products for menstruation, if one of these items can work for you, you may save money and improve your health in the long run. You’ll also help stem the flow of disposable products into our landfills.

Consider these sustainable, safe options.

Reusable Cloth Pads

This alternative period product is very similar to disposable pads in shape and size but entirely composed of absorbent fabric that can be washed with the rest of your laundry. Cloth sanitary napkins also tend to absorb more blood than their disposable counterpart. Like disposable pads, they are designed to be changed every few hours but stay firmly in place with a buttoning mechanism for the time in between.

This sustainable menstrual product is ideal for those who don’t wish to insert period protection, as well as for those who want a failsafe backup for their insertable products. Despite a higher price tag upfront than the average box of disposable pads, this option also saves you on monthly expenses since the cloth is durable and washable. Their reusable quality also prevents more unnecessary packaging and pads that aren’t kind to the earth. You can find reusable cloth pads in numerous styles and a range of absorbency levels and sizes. These reusable pads also tend to be more breathable, flexible, and less likely to feel bulky or feel lumpy under clothing.

However, like traditional pads, reusable pads may not be ideal for athletes or days at the beach. Cloth sanitary napkins are vulnerable to stains if washing is delayed and may be messy to change and hold onto while outside the house (though this is easily solved with a small, waterproof bag). They can also be a bit of an investment before saving on long-term costs, and some available designs (e.g., two interlocking parts, tying) can be tricky or inconvenient for some individuals.

Menstrual Cups and Discs

Menstrual cups have become increasingly popular in recent years, largely due to their potential to be in place for much longer than traditional period products. Some are capable of safe wear without being emptied for up to 6-12 hours (depending on individual flow). These silicone or rubber cups are flexible and meant to be folded and inserted, similar to a tampon. Within the vaginal canal, this cup creates a firm seal to collect blood, almost completely eliminating leakage before it’s time for removal. To remove, you’ll simply tug gently and pour the contents into the toilet, then thoroughly rinse the cup so it’s ready to be used again right away. Keep in mind that not all period cups are multi-use, so make sure to choose one that fits your preference before purchasing.

This method offers a sustainable and straightforward product that’s reusable, saves on monthly purchases, is small and discreet, and requires no multiples to switch out. Menstrual cups are ideal for those looking for an alternative period product that doesn’t take up space in their underwear or bunch up their clothing, people who are active and want to move freely without feeling a period product, and those who want to have sex on their period without the blood. Period cups also don’t impact your natural pH like tampons, cause a noticeable lingering blood smell like pads, or dry you out on lighter flow days.

There are a few drawbacks, depending on your preferences. Application and removal can be messy and difficult for some, and those with heavy flows may find the cup isn’t enough to avoid leakage. In addition, the investment is cost-effective over time, but the initial purchase may be pricey for some. There is a slight chance for TSS if cups are not used per instructions, but most agree that it is even lower than that posed by tampons. Menstrual cups may not be a good fit for individuals with fibroids, vaginismus, an IUD that is susceptible to dislodgement, or a latex allergy, as some cups contain this ingredient (always read the label if you have an allergy).

Period discs are a similar concept as the cup, except the disc shape sits above the cervix instead of below as a cup does. Discs also allow for up to 12 hours of protection and mess-free sex. This product method mainly comes in disposable form, so it requires repurchasing, but reusable options are beginning to hit the market.

Absorbent/Padded Underwear

Menstrual underwear, or period panties, are another great option for people who don’t like insertable menstrual products but also don’t want the added fuss of putting a pad on and replacing it after a few hours. This option looks and feels just like regular underwear but is made of materials specifically manufactured to soak up blood with no leak-throughs.

This option is sustainable because of its reusable quality that doesn’t require repurchase/replacement for years. You can change menstrual underwear as you feel comfortable – just wash them along with your other underwear, and they’ll be ready to use again once they’re clean. There are several inexpensive styles and designs available on the market, although those with added functions or higher absorbencies tend to increase in price compared to regular underwear. Regardless of the type, you’ll experience great absorbency that feels dry on the skin without the bulk or shifting of a pad.

The cons of period underwear are relatively few. They may not be a reliable option for people with heavy flows, and the various styles (and sizes) available across brands may mean a bit of trial and error period before you find the one that works best for you. Even if you find your favorite right away, they are an investment. You’ll also need to bring along a small wet bag if you anticipate the need to freshen up while on the go.

Sponge Tampons

Sea sponges can be inserted to absorb blood flow in a similar fashion to traditional tampons. If this sounds like an alternative menstrual product you’d like to try, it’s advantageous to make sure it is a natural sea sponge. Using a synthetic or dyed sponge can be even more risky and dangerous to your health than a traditional tampon.

Quality, natural sponges are reusable, with some lasting up to six months if properly used and regularly cleaned. Natural sponges are also less likely to have adverse effects like irritation compared to traditional tampons or pads that contain chemical additives. Sponge inserts are also less expensive than some other reusable alternative period products can be.

They aren’t without their caveats, though. Sponge material isn’t sterile, still carries the risk of TSS, and can be vulnerable to rips and tears during removal. Removal can also be messy since you don’t pull a string but instead use your fingers. They also need to be wetted before being inserted and require rinsing every three hours. Properly caring for natural sponge tampons involves washing them thoroughly and letting them dry completely before returning them to storage after your period has ended.

Free Bleeding

Free bleeding is self-explanatory. It involves going about life during your period with no protective barriers or measures to prevent blood from flowing. It’s not for everyone and can be cause for public concern if you are free bleeding while out and about.

If you’re in a position to free bleed and it’s what works for you — don’t hesitate to give it a try. Keep in mind that dried blood has the potential to be infectious, so minimal maintenance and attentiveness are still needed for your health and safety. Additionally, any surfaces that end up bloodied will require adequate disinfection to avoid the chance of transmitting any viruses. Potential downsides are stained clothing and other fabrics such as furniture or bed sheets; immediate treatment with cold water can help lessen the severity of staining.

Why Your Gynecological Health Is Important

Your gynecological health is important

Just like it’s crucial to take care of your body as a whole, it’s equally crucial to remain informed about your reproductive health. Gynecologists are specifically educated in all parts of the female reproductive system, including its needs, its potential issues, and how to prevent them. This focus and attention, coupled with comprehensive gynecological care, can catch serious problems early, notice symptoms and fluctuations your general doctor might not, and potentially explain issues you weren’t even aware were related to your reproductive system.

At Arizona Gynecological Consultants, our team cares about the person behind the patient. Our qualified team of professionals aims to treat you holistically and adjust your specialized treatment as your needs evolve. We’re here to listen and answer any questions you may have. Get in contact with us to schedule regular gynecology appointments and stay on top of your health.

What Causes Heavy Periods?

What Causes Heavy Periods?

This entry was posted in Ask An Expert and tagged on by .

From your first period, you’ll need to find a means of controlling heavy menstrual bleeding that meets your preferences, potentially including a pad, a tampon, or a menstrual cup. You’ll need to keep it accessible when your period is getting close, as well as some extra pants readily available in the event of a surprisingly heavy flow. Some women may also need to keep some pain relief medication on hand to reduce cramps and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Unfortunately, there is a population of women that will experience a consistently heavy flow beyond that experienced by most women, diagnosed as menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding. An abnormally heavy flow should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause. Potential causes include polyps, fibroids, hormone imbalance, adenomyosis, and von Willebrand’s disease.

Is Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Serious?

Heavy menstrual bleeding can affect your daily life, hindering you from accomplishing the tasks you have for the day. As mentioned, severe blood loss can also cause symptoms of anemia, a medical condition that develops when you have too little iron in your body. This depletion of iron can be life-threatening without corrective treatment.

Even if you do not develop anemia, it is still important to see a healthcare professional about menorrhagia. Some of the underlying causes of heavy bleeding, including cancer, require early medical intervention. So, although heavy bleeding may affect anywhere from 27% to 54% of people who menstruate, its common nature should not override the severity.

What is Menorrhagia?

Menorrhagia

There is a significant difference between normal menstrual bleeding and menorrhagia, or heavy menstrual bleeding. Though any large amount of bleeding is a concern, most women will not experience heavy enough or prolonged enough bleeding to be considered menorrhagia. The bleeding must be severe enough that you cannot maintain your usual activities during your period due to blood loss and cramping.

Signs and symptoms of menorrhagia include:

  • A flow heavy enough to soak through one or more sanitary pads or tampons every hour for three or more consecutive hours.
  • The need to use double sanitary protection to contain your menstrual flow.
  • Waking up in the middle of the night to change your sanitary protection.
  • Periods lasting for a week or longer.
  • Passing blood clots that are a quarter size or bigger. The blood may be pink, red, brown, or rust-like in color.
  • Losing more than 80 milliliters of blood during your period, compared to the typical 35-40 milliliters lost by most women.
  • Restricting your daily activities because of the heavy menstrual flow.
  • Anemia symptoms like fatigue, tiredness, or shortness of breath.

Along with anemia, you could also notice symptoms of a condition called pica. These symptoms include pale skin, hair loss, and the urge to eat non-food items (hair, paper, dirt, and more). Contacting your provider is important if you experience any of these symptoms.

How Do I Know If I Have Menorrhagia?

Unfortunately, many people that experience heavy menstrual bleeding do not get medical help because they assume their periods are supposed to be uncomfortable and inconvenient. Their concerns may have been dismissed by family members that experience similar symptoms or even healthcare providers that did not take their concerns seriously. However, your flow should never require you to accept inconvenience or restrict activities long-term.

During your period, you should be able to:

  • Wear a standard absorbency pad or tampon for three to four hours without changing it for a new one.
  • Wear a single sanitary product without needing to double up (two pads or two tampons at the same time) at any point.
  • Leave your home for a few hours without planning to bring extra bags of pads or clothing changes.
  • Live your life as you normally do, without avoiding public places or missing work.

If your period is disrupting your life, it is time to visit your healthcare provider and start working on a plan to find and treat the cause.

What is the Cause of a Heavy Menstrual Bleeding?

What is the Cause of a Heavy Period?

Heavy menstrual bleeding can be caused by many different conditions, ranging from hormone imbalances to medical conditions and even stress.

Hormone Imbalance

Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are produced by your body and regulate your menstrual cycle. If these hormones are not produced in the right amounts at the right time, heavy periods can result. There are medical conditions that will affect your hormones and can cause imbalances that result in heavy menstrual bleeding. These include:

Thyroid Disease

The thyroid gland is wrapped around the trachea in the front of the neck. It makes and stores hormones essential for the function of every cell in the body. Along with the menstrual cycle, these hormones help regulate blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, and how food is converted to energy. Thyroid disease is a general term used when the thyroid fails to make the proper level of hormones, whether it is too much (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism). The cause of the disease will dictate treatment, but it can include medication, surgery, and radioactive iodine.

Anovulation

Anovulation occurs when an ovum, or egg, fails to release from your ovary during your menstrual cycle. It is a common cause of infertility, as an egg is required for pregnancy. A build-up of the uterine lining and insufficient levels of progesterone from anovulation can cause heavy bleeding. Treatment for this condition depends on your specific hormone imbalance but can include managing your stress, medication, and hormone injections.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that is common among women of reproductive age. It is caused by the ovarian overproduction of androgens; male sex hormones typically present in women in small amounts. This disorder is normally characterized by fluid-filled sacs that form on the ovaries if the ovary fails to release an egg.

Treatment depends on whether you want to become pregnant or not. If you do want to become pregnant, treatment options include medication to induce ovulation and surgery. Birth control is a common treatment for those that do not want to become pregnant.

Infection

Some infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STI), can result in heavy menstrual bleeding.

Chlamydia

Caused by an infection of a bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis, chlamydia is an STI that can cause heavy menstrual cycles. It can also cause inflammation of the cervix, which results in spotting between periods. Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is caused by an infection of the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae and is commonly a co-infection with chlamydia. Like chlamydia, it can also cause irritation of the cervix that results in bleeding in between cycles. Gonorrhea is also treated with antibiotics.

Chronic Endometriosis

Though the exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, it is believed to be retrograde menstruation, where menstruation blood flows from the uterus back through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity. This condition can cause very heavy or very light menstrual flow. Endometriosis is treated with hormone therapy, surgical treatments, and pain medications.

Noncancerous Growths in the Uterus

Even though these growths are benign and noncancerous, they can still cause cells to grow improperly in your uterus, which can result in heavy menstrual bleeding.

Polyps

Uterine polyps, or endometrial polyps, are growths in the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium). The polyps are caused by an overgrowth of endometrial tissue, may be round or oval, and can range from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. Polyps can cause your menstrual cycle to become irregular or heavy. Treatment for polyps depends on their location and size, but they are frequently surgically removed.

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids, also termed leiomyomas, are growths composed of connective and muscle tissue from the wall of the uterus. They are rounded growths that can grow as a single nodule or in a cluster. They can cause painful and excessive menstrual bleeding. There are many treatments for fibroids, including medication and surgical removal, but they can also be left in place if they are nonsymptomatic.

Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis occurs when tissue from the endometrium grows and pushes into the uterine wall, enlarging the uterus. The uterus can grow to double or triple the normal size because of the extra tissue. The enlarged uterus will then cause abnormally high blood volume during your period. Pain medication, hormonal birth control, and a hysterectomy are treatment options for adenomyosis.

Uterine Cancer

Heavy menstrual bleeding can be caused by cancers of the reproductive system. Uterine cancer is a general term that covers all cancers of the uterus, including endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma. About 3% of cisgender women will be diagnosed with uterine cancer, and of these, most will develop endometrial cancer. Treatment for uterine cancer is typically a hysterectomy to remove all the cancerous tissue.

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding and Other Medical Conditions

Heavy menstrual bleeding can be a symptom of various medical conditions, including non-bleeding disorders and bleeding disorders.

Von Willebrand Disease

This common blood disorder is genetically inherited and prevents your blood from clotting properly. It is like hemophilia, but it usually causes less severe symptoms. The condition may be treated with medication, specifically birth control, to help reduce the blood loss during your period.

Liver Disease

Liver disease refers to any condition that can affect or damage your liver. Because your liver filters out mutated hormones, an improperly functioning liver can cause heavy or clotted menses. Treatment for liver disease depends on the underlying reason for the liver disease and how far it has progressed, but the options include medication, lifestyle changes, and a liver transplant.

How Is the Cause of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Diagnosed?

The first step to getting a diagnosis is scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider. You can prepare for this appointment by gathering this information and ensuring the information is thorough.

Questions they may ask during this appointment include:

  • What age did you first get your period?
  • How long do your periods normally last?
  • Do you have family members with a history of heavy menstrual bleeding?
  • What birth control are you currently taking, and what is your pregnancy history?
  • What other symptoms are you experiencing?
  • How are you managing your periods?

Once your provider has gathered your history, they will run a series of tests depending on which conditions are determined to be most likely from your answers.

The possible tests include:

  • Blood test
  • Pap smear
  • Sonohysterogram
  • Hysteroscopy
  • Endometrial biopsy
  • Ultrasound
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Menorrhagia FAQs

So, should you speak with your gynecologist about your heavy periods? How can you tell your period is heavy enough to be classified as menorrhagia? Learn more about menorrhagia with these FAQs.

Q: What Does a Normal Period Look Like?

A: There are no strict guidelines for how a period should look because everyone is different. However, while a “normal” period is hard to define, there are general parameters for a typical period. Most cycles last for 28 days, with four to five days of bleeding. The total blood loss should be 35 mL to 40 mL, and the blood clots should be occasional and smaller than a quarter.

Q: What Is Considered a Heavy Menstrual Bleeding?

A: A standard volume of blood loss for a heavy period is 80 milliliters of blood during the period with a duration of seven or more days. If you soak through one or more tampons or pads per hour for several hours or need to wear more than one menstrual product at a time to control the bleeding, you likely have a heavy period.

Q: Should Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Affect My Daily Life?

A: While all people with a period must make a few small accommodations if they want to avoid bleeding on their clothing, your period should not consistently affect your daily life. What’s more, you should not need to schedule your day around your period. If the volume of the bleeding that occurs during your menstrual cycle interferes with your social plans, daily activities, or work life, it is time to see a doctor and find the cause of the bleeding.

Q: What Usually Causes Chronic Heavy Menstrual Bleeding?

A: There is an extensive list of potential causes of excessive uterine bleeding, and a conversation with a healthcare provider may be required to discover the cause of your heavy bleeding. They will be able to administer diagnostic tests and hopefully find answers.

Common culprits are:

  • Hormone imbalance
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Noncancerous growths
  • Platelet disorders
  • Sexually transmitted infections

You Don’t Have to Settle For the Inconvenience of Heavy Periods

Talking to doctor about Heavy menstrual bleeding

Just because you have lived your life up until now, accepting that heavy periods are normal does not mean you have to continue to do so. Even if your family has convinced you that they are to be endured or previous medical professionals have dismissed your concerns, speaking with trustworthy healthcare providers can result in a diagnosis and treatment plan that completely changes your quality of life.

Sources

  1. Menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
  2. Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia): Causes & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org)
  3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) | Johns Hopkins Medicine
  4. Anovulation: Signs, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org)
  5. Uterine Polyps: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org)
  6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6500811/
Is Heavy Uterine Bleeding Serious And A Sign For Surgery

Is Heavy Uterine Bleeding Serious And A Sign For Surgery?

Menstrual periods vary from person to person. While one woman’s period can be light and short, others can experience a heavy menstrual cycle full of cramps, back pain, and emotional turmoil. Most of these are not a cause for alarm; however, you might wonder if an extremely heavy flow is. Sometimes, the answer is yes.

While not all heavy flows are a symptom of an underlying health condition, there are certain signs that you should not ignore.

AZG Video ABC

Arizona Gynecology Consultants has treatment options for heavy periods

Common Causes Of A Heavy Menstrual Period

Women are all made differently, and periods can change from month to month. Diet, genetics, sexual habits, birth control methods, and many other factors can change the flow of your period. However, there are a few common causes of heavy uterine bleeding that are not related to your daily life and may need medical intervention. A few possible causes are:

  • Hormone imbalance, such as PCOS
  • Pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
  • Endometriosis and adenomyosis
  • Genetic bleeding disorders
  • Ovarian dysfunction
  • Fibroids or polyps in the uterus
  • Intrauterine devices
  • Uterine or cervical cancer

Menorrhagia is the medical term for abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding. Medical professionals define abnormal bleeding as any amount of period blood over 80 milliliters – typically about 16 tampons. Symptoms of menorrhagia include:

  • Heavy menstrual bleeding for longer than one week
  • Menstrual clotting with clots larger than a quarter
  • Anemia symptoms, including fatigue and shortness of breath

Usually, women with menorrhagia have to change their menstrual pads or tampons multiple times a day because the blood soaks through the products so quickly. Some women have to double up on their pads to ensure no blood seeps through them. Others might need to wake up during the night to change their pad or tampon. Their periods may even restrict their daily activities because of their heavy flow.

How To Treat An Abnormally Heavy Flow

Treatment for menorrhagia is based on a number of factors, including your lifestyle, your plans to bear children, your reaction to medications, and your overall health. Doctors treat menorrhagia through medications, surgery, and other procedures.

When you visit a doctor for menorrhagia, they will ask you about your menstrual cycles, medical history, and family background. They may also take a blood sample, an ultrasound, a Pap smear, or a biopsy to determine the cause of the heavy flow.

After your initial intake, the doctor can recommend a number of treatments:

  • Medications such as ibuprofen to relieve pain, oral contraceptives to regulate your cycle, and tranexamic acid to relieve bleeding
  • A hormonal IUD to reduce your uterine lining
  • Progesterone to fix a hormonal imbalance
  • Various surgical procedures

Risks Of Heavy Uterine Bleeding

There are certain symptoms associated with heavy uterine bleeding that you should never ignore. These symptoms can develop into potentially dangerous conditions.

You should seek medical attention for menorrhagia and heavy uterine bleeding if:

  • You experience any vaginal bleeding after menopause
  • You soak through at least one pad or tampon per hour
  • You bleed between periods
  • You experience any other form of irregular vaginal bleeding

Prolonged menstrual bleeding can lead to the development of anemia. When you bleed such a heavy amount, you’re losing vital red blood cells. When you lose these cells, your body uses up iron to make hemoglobin, a protein that helps blood cells carry oxygen through your body. However, this decreases your iron levels, increasing your risk of developing anemia.

Symptoms of anemia include:

  • Fatigue
  • Pale skin
  • Shortness of breath
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Unusually rapid heart rate

The symptoms of anemia alone are enough to cause difficulty in your daily life. Anemia can also lead to severe organ damage because the condition reduces the amount of oxygen that your body receives. Heart damage is especially common, since your heart will need to work harder to make up for your low red blood cell count. Pregnant women with anemia are at risk of premature birth, miscarriage, and low birth weight.

Surgery For Heavy Uterine Bleeding

If heavy menstruation is affecting your daily life, talk to your doctor. Menorrhagia surgery may be a way to transform this difficulty. Doctors may consider surgery depending on a few factors, including the severity of your condition. If you have a fear of surgical procedures, consider visiting Arizona Gynecology Consultants to find an alternative, noninvasive treatment for your condition.

Common menorrhagia surgeries include:

  • Focused ultrasound surgery, which treats bleeding from fibroids
  • Hysterectomy, which removes the uterus and cervix
  • Myomectomy, which removes fibroids
  • Uterine artery embolization, which shrinks fibroids by cutting off blood supply
  • Dilation and curettage, endometrial resection, and endometrial ablation, which all remove the uterine lining

Call Arizona Gynecology Consultants For Advice

Contact Arizona Gynecology Consultants today to discuss whether your heavy menstrual flow is a cause for concern. Our compassionate staff can schedule an appointment and offer advice on the best way to negotiate uterine bleeding until you see a physician.