Actions for this page Listen Print. Summary Read the full fact sheet. On this page. Symptoms of abnormal uterine bleeding Causes of abnormal uterine bleeding Diagnosis of abnormal uterine bleeding Treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding Where to get help. Abnormally heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding is also called 'abnormal uterine bleeding'.
We sometimes use this general term to describe bleeding that does not follow a normal pattern, such as spotting between periods. It used to be referred to as menorrhagia, but this term is no longer used medically.
On average, a typical woman passes around 40 ml of blood during her menstrual period, which lasts around four to seven days. For some women, however, bleeding may be excessively heavy or go on for longer than normal. A woman may have 'chronic' heavy or prolonged bleeding for more than six months or it may be 'acute' sudden and severe. In most cases, the causes of abnormal menstrual bleeding are unknown.
See your doctor about any abnormal menstrual bleeding. This condition occurs when the cells that normally line the uterus grow into the wall of the uterus. Some bleeding disorders that prevent blood from clotting properly.
Certain medicines, such as anticoagulants. Sometimes a cause can't be found. When are heavy periods a cause for concern? In rare cases, heavy periods may be a sign of a serious problem, such as an infection or cancer.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if: You pass clots of blood and soak through your usual pads or tampons every hour for 2 or more hours. You are dizzy or lightheaded, or you feel like you may faint. How are heavy periods diagnosed?
These tests may include: A Pap test. This can look for signs of infection and changes in the cells of your cervix. Blood tests. These can check for anemia, a bleeding disorder, or other problems. A pelvic ultrasound. This test can look for any problems in the pelvic area. An endometrial biopsy. It can check for abnormal cell changes in the lining of the uterus endometrium. A hysteroscopy. This can check the lining of your uterus to look for the cause of bleeding, such as fibroids.
How are they treated? Hormone treatments that may be prescribed include: Birth control pills, patch, or ring. These release two hormones, estrogen and progestin.
They prevent pregnancy and also can reduce menstrual bleeding and pain. Progestin-only birth control, such as mini-pills, implants, and shots. These types of birth control can reduce bleeding and cramping. Progestin pills. These are progestin-only pills that help reduce bleeding but do not prevent pregnancy. Hormonal IUD. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.
This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Menorrhagia is the medical term for menstrual periods with abnormally heavy or prolonged bleeding. More Information Blood clots during menstruation: A concern? Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Fibroid locations Open pop-up dialog box Close. Fibroid locations There are three major types of uterine fibroids.
Uterine polyps Open pop-up dialog box Close. Uterine polyps Uterine polyps attach to your uterus by a large base or a thin stalk and can grow to be several centimeters in size.
Adenomyosis Open pop-up dialog box Close. Adenomyosis With adenomyosis, the same tissue that lines the uterus endometrial tissue is present within and grows into the muscular walls of your uterus. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Ferri FF. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor Philadelphia, Pa.
Accessed April 10, Heavy menstrual bleeding. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Other health conditions that can trigger menorrhagia include thyroid disorders, endometriosis , and liver or kidney disease. If bleeding interferes with daily life and social, physical, or emotional wellbeing, it is appropriate to seek help. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, or Advil, can be used to treat dysmenorrhea, or painful menstrual cramps, and they can help reduce blood loss.
The choice of intervention will take into account the cause and extent of the condition, the age and health of the patient, and their personal preference and expectations.
Other types of abnormal bleeding include:. Anyone who is concerned about heavy bleeding or other types of abnormal bleeding should discuss their concerns with a doctor.
Many people experience symptoms, such as cramps, acne, or tender breasts, when a period is on its way. Learn the signs a period is coming. When a period comes early, it is often no cause for concern. Learn about some potential causes of an early period and when to see a doctor.
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