This annoying time of the month drains us of every trace of chocolate, ibuprofen, and motivation to escape our cookie monster PJs.
Despite its loathing, however, menstruation is an integral part of our reproductive life and signals the existence of a healthy cycle. Only when abnormal bleeding occurs should we be concerned for our well-being. With that said, here are six types of cases.
Bleeding between periods
Although spotting between periods is generally not a concern, heavy vaginal bleeding that is not a result of your period can be a symptom of something more serious. Sometimes, hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pads, vaginal rings, pills, implants, intrauterine devices (IUDs) or emergency contraceptives can cause this type of abnormal bleeding. If it lasts more than three months or is very heavy, you should consult your gynecologist for proper diagnosis.
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Menorrhoea is the term for menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than seven days or is extremely heavy (usually when you need to change a tampon or pad after less than two hours). Often, it is the result of hormonal or maternal problems. Prolonged bouts of this type of bleeding can cause anemia, a vitamin deficiency that makes you feel very weak and tired.
There are many causes of heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia. Some of the more common causes include:
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Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by thyroid disorders, can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding.
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Endometrial hyperplasia: This condition involves overgrowth of the lining of the uterus, which can cause heavy menstrual bleeding.
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Endometriosis: In this condition, the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside the uterus, which can cause heavy bleeding and pain during periods.
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Adenomyosis: This condition occurs when the tissue that covers the uterus grows into the muscle wall of the uterus, which can cause heavy and painful periods.
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Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): PID is an infection of the reproductive organs that can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, as well as other symptoms such as pain and fever.
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Certain medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners, can cause heavy period bleeding.
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Cancer: In rare cases, heavy menstrual bleeding can be a symptom of cancer of the uterus, cervix, or ovaries.
If you are experiencing heavy period bleeding, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options.
Extended period
A prolonged period can sometimes be caused by uterine fibroids, which are non-cancerous growths in the uterus. This condition is also often accompanied by pelvic pain, lower back pain and urinary tract problems.
Irregular period
For the first two years after menarche (a woman’s first period), menstrual cycle irregularity is generally not a cause for concern. However, if this happens after puberty, it may be indicative of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder that leads to infertility, gestational diabetes and other complications. Irregular periods can also be a result of stress, excessive exercise or pregnancy.
Bleeding after menopause
Bleeding after menopause is almost never normal. It can be a symptom of endometrial, cervical, or vulvar cancer, or of endometrial problems such as atrophy or hyperplasia (the lining of the uterus becomes thick as a precursor to endometrial cancer). If you experience any type of postmenopausal bleeding, you should consult a gynecologic oncologist.
Disclaimer: Femalle.net does not guarantee any specific results as a result of the procedures mentioned here and the results may vary from person to person. The topics in these pages including text, graphics, videos and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only and not to be substituted for professional medical advice.
Originally published 05-30-2019 21:40:36.
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