Also known as menorrhagia, heavy bleeding during menstruation may be a
symptom of a more serious condition. Typically, heavy bleeding is identified
when a woman needs to change their tampon or pad every hour when on their
period. Along with heavy bleeding, other symptoms may include extreme
fatigue, cramps, anemia, or the passing of blood clots. Our team of board-certified
OB/GYNs at Women’s Health at Valley View can provide diagnostic
testing to identify the cause of heavy bleeding, as well as offer several
treatment options. At our locations in Glenwood Springs, Basalt, and Silt,
CO, our goal is to help women experience an improved quality of life by
effectively treating heavy bleeding and the associated symptoms. Through
a comprehensive consultation, we can help you to learn more about your options.
Causes of Heavy Bleeding
In order to identify the cause of problems that may lead to heavy or abnormal
bleeding, an endometrial biopsy can be performed. During the biopsy, a
small piece of tissue from the endometrium (the lining of the uterus)
is taken in order to be examined for cancerous cells or other abnormalities.
Some common causes of heavy bleeding may also include:
Unbalanced hormones
Growths on the uterus
Endometriosis
Hypothyroidism
Pelvic inflammatory disease
Kidney or liver conditions
Precancer or cancer in the uterus, cervix, or ovaries
Treatment Options
Medication Management: Hormone-releasing medications that help administer progesterone that
can give the body a signal to not thicken the lining of the uterus may
be useful in treating heavy bleeding. In turn, the uterus will have less
lining to shed throughout the menstrual cycle. One of the most common
forms of hormone-releasing medications includes birth control pills.
Intrauterine Device: Also known as an intrauterine device, an IUD is a hormone-releasing device
that works by releasing progestin. This helps to thin the lining of the
uterus, which means there will be less lining to shed during menstruation.
Though many women relate IUD to a form of contraception, it is also approved
by the FDA as a treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding.
Ablation Techniques: As an effective treatment for heavy bleeding during menstruation, endometrial
ablation requires no surgical incisions. Instead, a small tool is inserted
into the vagina in order to remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
There are several different methods used for endometrial ablation, such
as extreme cold, heated fluids, microwave energy, and radiofrequency energy.
What to Expect
At Women’s Health at Valley View, we work with patients to understand
their existing symptoms and concerns before offering a customized treatment
plan. Through proper diagnostic testing, we can also work to identify
what may be causing your symptoms in order to better treat you.
Learning About Your Options
Heavy menstrual bleeding can greatly affect a woman’s quality of
life. Thankfully, our team of experienced OB/GYNs at Women’s Health
at Valley View can offer various solutions to treat the condition for
women of all ages. Schedule a consultation at one of our Colorado locations
to learn more about how we can help.
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