Commonly asked questions about High Risk pregnancy during consultation:
1. What is considered heavy menstrual bleeding?
Heavy menstrual bleeding is defined as blood loss exceeding 80 mL per cycle or bleeding that lasts longer than 7 days, especially if it interferes with daily activities. Signs include soaking through a pad/tampon every 1–2 hours or passing large blood clots.
2. What are the common causes of heavy menstrual bleeding?
Causes include: Uterine fibroids, Adenomyosis, Endometrial polyps, Hormonal imbalances, Bleeding disorders, Thyroid dysfunction
8. Is heavy menstrual bleeding normal during perimenopause?
Yes, hormonal fluctuations in perimenopause can cause heavier or irregular bleeding. However, evaluation is important to rule out endometrial hyperplasia or other pathology.
3. When should I see a doctor for heavy periods?
Bleed for more than 7 days
Soak through pads/tampons hourly
Pass clots larger than a quarter
Experience fatigue, dizziness, or signs of anemia
4. How is heavy menstrual bleeding diagnosed?
Medical history and menstrual diary
Pelvic exam
Blood tests (for anemia, thyroid, clotting disorders)
Ultrasound
Sometimes hysteroscopy or endometrial biopsy
6. What are the treatment options for heavy menstrual bleeding?
Treatment depends on the cause and may include:
Hormonal therapy (e.g., combined oral contraceptives, progestins)
Non-hormonal medications (e.g., tranexamic acid, NSAIDs)
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) like LNG-IUS (Mirena)
Surgical options (e.g., endometrial ablation, hysterectomy, myomectomy)
5. Can hormonal imbalances cause heavy periods?
Yes. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), perimenopause, and anovulatory cycles can disrupt estrogen and progesterone balance, leading to heavy or irregular bleeding.
7. Can iron deficiency anemia result from heavy periods?
Yes. Prolonged or excessive blood loss can deplete iron stores, leading to iron deficiency anemia, causing fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
10. Is heavy bleeding ever a sign of cancer?
In some cases, endometrial cancer or cervical cancer can present with abnormal or heavy bleeding, especially in women over 40 or those with risk factors. Evaluation is crucial if bleeding is persistent, occurs after intercourse, or postmenopausal.
9. Can lifestyle factors affect menstrual bleeding?
Yes. Stress, significant weight changes, intense exercise, or certain medications can influence hormone levels and affect the menstrual cycle.