Heavy periods are physically uncomfortable and emotionally draining — and menstrual bleeding that gets in the way of your daily life isn’t normal. The good news? There’s treatment for heavy periods to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Our team at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta specializes in women’s wellness, and we offer a range of solutions to manage your menstrual cycles. Here’s what you need to know.
Every woman’s menstrual periods are different, and it’s normal for your periods to vary even from month to month. However, a few symptoms could indicate menorrhagia, or very heavy menstrual bleeding.
You could have menorrhagia if you:
For some women, menorrhagia can cause iron deficiency anemia, which often manifests as weakness, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
The causes of heavy periods can vary. A few medical conditions that can lead to heavy bleeding are polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and uterine fibroids. Stress, certain medications, and lifestyle factors like excessive exercise or a poor diet can also contribute to irregular menstrual bleeding.
Now, onto the good news: Treatment can make a big difference in managing heavy periods and minimizing your discomfort. The first step is talking to your doctor about your symptoms.
Our team understands how frustrating heavy periods can be, and we’re here to help you find an effective solution that fits your lifestyle. We do a comprehensive exam and review your medical history to diagnose your condition, then discuss treatment strategies with you.
Some of the most effective treatment options for heavy periods are:
Hormonal birth control, including birth control pills and hormonal IUDs, use hormones to prevent pregnancy, but they can also regulate your menstrual cycle and decrease the severity of bleeding.
This medication works by slowing down blood clot breakdown. You typically take it for a few days for your period, and it can reduce menstrual flow.
If you have iron deficiency anemia due to heavy periods, we may recommend iron supplements to replenish your iron stores and help reduce symptoms like fatigue and weakness.
Sometimes, medication alone isn't effective, or an underlying issue like fibroids causes menorrhagia. In these cases, we might recommend surgical options like endometrial ablation to reduce or eliminate menstrual bleeding altogether.
Remember that what works for one person may not necessarily work for another, so finding the right treatment approach often requires some trial and error. Talk with our team about your symptoms, concerns, and treatment preferences, and we’ll work with you to find an approach that fits your needs.
Dealing with extremely heavy periods is challenging, and you don't have to suffer in silence. Relief is possible, and we’re ready to help. Call our offices in Marietta and Woodstock, Georgia, to schedule your first appointment.
