Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Akin to the First Egyptian Plague: Understanding Its Causes

Unusually Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Uncovering the Mystery Behind Its Intensity

Heavy periods, medically known as menorrhagia, can be a cause for concern for many women. This condition is characterised by periods that last more than 7 days or have an intense flow. In this article, we'll delve into the causes, symptoms, and management of heavy periods.

Heavy periods can be caused by several factors. Hormonal imbalances, such as estrogen dominance (high estrogen or low progesterone), ovulation disorders, and a lack of proper coordination of cycle hormones, are common culprits. Uterine changes like fibroids, adhesions, or inflammation that hinder uterine contractions and blood flow regulation also play a role. Life phases with natural hormonal changes, such as menarche, postpartum, and perimenopause, increase the risk of heavy bleeding.

Other health factors can contribute to heavy periods as well. Certain birth control methods, uterine fibroids, hormonal conditions like PCOS, bleeding disorders, medications, other health conditions like liver, kidney, or thyroid disease, pelvic inflammatory disease, adenomyosis, having a polyp, or some cancers can all lead to heavy periods.

Heavy periods can present with several symptoms, including heavy bleeding that soaks through one or more pads or tampons per hour for several hours, needing to change in the middle of the night, needing to double up on pads, passing blood clots larger than a quarter, experiencing constant or intense abdominal cramping, avoiding regular activities due to period heaviness, feeling tired or sluggish during the period, or having an unusual change in flow.

Heavy periods can indicate iron-deficiency anemia, causing fatigue or sluggishness. It's important to stay hydrated to prevent a weak, light-headed feeling during heavy periods.

If periods last longer than 7 days, are excessively heavy, or are accompanied by other symptoms like passing clots larger than a quarter, bleeding in between periods, bleeding after menopause, or severe abdominal pain or cramping, it's advisable to consult a doctor.

Surgical procedures like endometrial ablation or fibroid surgery may be recommended to manage heavy periods. Birth control pills or hormonal IUDs can also help lighten periods.

Clots during a period are a mix of blood and tissue and are a typical part of the period. Ibuprofen and a heating pad can help alleviate abdominal cramps during heavy periods.

To keep track of your period flow, it's important to keep a log. Aim to consume 18 milligrams of iron daily during a heavy period, from food sources like fortified cereal, beef, chicken, turkey, fish, beans, leafy greens, and dark chocolate. Iron supplements may be recommended by a doctor to replenish iron lost during heavy periods.

Remember, a heavy period can be normal for a day or two, but excessive bleeding beyond that might indicate an underlying issue. If you're experiencing heavy periods, don't hesitate to consult a doctor.