Heavy Bleeding Deserves Attention: A Candid Consult

Dr. Lee Halpern, lead physician with Women’s Healthcare Associates of Bucks County in Langhorne, PA, answers common questions surrounding heavy menstrual bleeding – a condition that millions of women experience every month.

My periods are very heavy every month. How do I know if this bleeding is abnormal?

Many women experience heavy periods, but this isn’t necessarily abnormal. In general, abnormally heavy bleeding is typically bleeding that causes you to:

change your pad or tampon once an hour throughout the day
get up in the middle of the night to change a pad
miss work or not participate in the activities you enjoy

Heavy bleeding can range from an annoyance to a major lifestyle interruption. Abnormally heavy bleeding can disrupt your sex life, result in fatigue and exhaustion, and even cause you to lose iron content, ultimately resulting in anemia. For this reason, it’s very important to speak with your provider to explore just how much of an impact your bleeding may have on your overall health – and what personalized treatment plans may be an option for you.

How common is heavy bleeding in women, and who is more likely to experience it?

You’re not alone – nearly 1 in 5 women in the U.S. experience heavy bleeding. However, many women who experience heavy bleeding tend to also experience underlying conditions such as fibroids or obesity. Additionally, certain medications can contribute to the amount of bleeding a woman experiences. Nevertheless, heavy bleeding is understandably concerning, and your OB/GYN provider should be willing to discuss your concerns and potential solutions with you.

Does heavy bleeding predispose me for other conditions, such as cervical cancer?

No. Heavy bleeding does not at all mean you are more likely to have cervical cancer. But, your provider will likely want to ensure you are up to date on your Pap smear to review results and rule out potential concerns. With or without heavy bleeding, women should have a Pap smear every 1-3 years, depending on the recommendation of your provider.

How can my heavy bleeding be treated?

Luckily, there are many ways to treat heavy bleeding, ranging from non-surgical to surgical options. Birth control contraceptives are a good example of a non-surgical option for some women. Minor procedures, such as endometrial ablation, can be performed on an outpatient basis. Endometrial ablation involves a burning process that destroys the uterine lining, often resulting in lighter periods – or not periods at all. It’s absolutely best to speak with your OB/GYN for a proper diagnosis and discussion around appropriate treatments.