Heavy Periods

Why is my period so heavy?

An array of health conditions, taking medications like aspirin, or even using an IUD for contraception, may lead to a heavy period. Health-related causes of heavy menstruation include, but aren’t limited to: 

Fibroids or polyps

These are growths on your uterus or in your uterine wall. These growths can be painful and cause heavy bleeding, particularly when the growths are large or rupture.

Endometriosis

This condition occurs when your uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside your uterus. As many as 1 in 10 women have endometriosis, although many don’t know they have it.

Ovulatory disorders

Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can produce heavy periods and clusters of small cysts on your ovaries. PCOS is believed to be linked to an excess of male hormones in your body and insulin resistance, but researchers are still determining the cause of PCOS.

In other cases, heavy bleeding might be a symptom of an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. It’s less common for heavy periods to be a warning sign of endometrial cancer, which is usually diagnosed in the post-menopausal years.

How does my gynecologist diagnose a heavy period?

During your visit at Boca Women's Health, expect Dr. Dejean to ask you detailed questions about your period. This helps her narrow down the source of the heavy bleeding. She asks you to describe your most recent menstrual cycles, including:

• When your period started
• How long your period lasted
• The nature of your flow

She looks for certain criteria that indicate a heavy period, such as menstruation lasting more than one week. Next, Dr. Dejean conducts a physical exam and pelvic exam, and recommends appropriate tests to complete her diagnosis.

What tests help to identify the causes of heavy periods?

Dr. Dejean recommends appropriate lab tests and other diagnostic tests, such as:

• Hysteroscopy
• Ultrasound
• Endometrial biopsy

Once she has identified the source of your heavy periods, she suggests an appropriate treatment plan to address the condition.

What are the treatments for heavy periods?

Dr. Dejean tailors her treatment recommendations based on the underlying reason for your heavy menstruation. She may begin by suggesting conservative methods, such as prescription medications to reduce or stop your menstrual flow.

In other cases, Dr. Dejean recommends a treatment called endometrial ablation, a quick in-office procedure at Boca Women's Health. Endometrial ablation minimizes or stops a heavy flow by removing the lining of your uterus. 

Don’t suffer from a heavy period. Call Boca Women's Health today or book a consultation online with Dr. Dejean.

We see patients in Boca Raton and Pembroke Pines. Book online or call us today to schedule your appointment.