Every woman bleeds differently during her monthly cycle. Since the bleeding pattern varies from woman to woman, it is difficult to decipher a normal and abnormal parameter for it. In fact, there is no universal indication for menstrual bleeding that is ‘just right’.
If you experience a prolonged or heavy menstrual period where you require a new sanitary pad or tampon every half an hour to an hour, you might be dealing with menorrhagia. While you may bleed more one particular month due to hormonal disturbance caused by stress or other factors, menstrual bleeding that continues to be heavy every month should not be ignored.
Here are seven main reasons that could be making you bleed more than usual.
1. Hormonal Imbalance
One of the main causes of menorrhagia is hormonal disturbance. The hormones estrogen and progesterone are regulators of menstrual cycle in women. A disruption in the release of these hormones can result in excessive bleeding.
2. Fibroids
Commonly referred to as non-cancerous tumors of the uterus, fibroids are abnormal growths that form in the muscle of the uterine wall and can result in heavy menstrual bleeding. These benign tumors can increase the pressure on the pelvis and cause pain. (Related Article: Top 3 Tips For Healing Fibroids Naturally)
3. Uterine Polyps
Benign growth that occurs at the lining of the uterus—endometrium—is known as uterine polyps. These non-cancerous growths can also form at the cervix and are usually extended into the uterine cavity. They can cause irregular and heavy menstrual bleeding.
4. Hyperplasia
Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition wherein an abnormal thick lining develops on the inside of the uterus. It is known to cause heavy irregular menstrual bleeding and blood stained vaginal discharge. In some cases, hyperplasia can gradually progress to endometrial cancer.
5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
This disease is characterized by an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes and other parts of the female reproductive system which results in inflammation and induces heavy menstrual bleeding. (Related Article: What You Need To Know About Pelvic Inflammatory Disease)
6. Adenomyosis
In this condition, the cells or glands from the endometrium grow and get embedded in the uterine wall. This puts excessive pressure on the uterus, making it grow large. Most common in middle-aged women, adenomyosis is another cause for heavy menstrual bleeding.
7. Other Factors
Lesser known conditions that cause heavy periods are uterine, ovarian or cervical cancers, intrauterine devices (IUDs), PCOS, blood thinners or anti-coagulants, thyroid problems and kidney or liver disorders.
It is best to talk to your doctor about your menstrual bleeding pattern if you are experiencing heavy blood loss. Heavy menstrual bleeding can be treated if diagnosed in time.
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