Menorrhagia Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Periods can vary greatly from one woman to another. Some women experience light, predictable bleeding, while others might deal with heavier periods that affect daily life.

Sometimes it’s hard to distinguish between heavy periods and menorrhagia (excessively heavy menstrual bleeding), but understanding the difference is crucial to getting the right care. 

In India, menorrhagia affects around 10–15% of women every year. It’s one of the most common gynaecological concerns women talk about with their OB-GYN during regular check-ups. 

What Is Menorrhagia?

Menorrhagia is a term doctors use for unusually heavy or long-lasting periods. A typical period lasts about 4 to 7 days. If your bleeding goes beyond 7 days or feels much heavier than normal, it could be menorrhagia. 

Women with menorrhagia may lose so much blood that it affects their energy, mood, and ability to carry out daily activities. Occasional heavy periods can happen, but when heavy bleeding becomes regular, it should never be ignored.

Many women wonder, “Is menorrhagia dangerous?” It depends on the cause and severity. Left untreated, it can lead to anaemia, fatigue, and other health issues.

Symptoms of Menorrhagia You Shouldn’t Ignore

Understanding the symptoms helps you act early and get the right treatment. Some common symptoms are:

• Bleeding for more than 7 days
• Changing sanitary pads or tampons every 1–2 hours
• Passing large blood clots
• Feeling tired, dizzy, or weak during or after periods
• Shortness of breath due to low iron levels
• Severe lower abdominal cramps or pain
• Difficulty managing daily activities during periods

If you notice one or more of these signs, consult the best gynaecologist near you.

Causes of Menorrhagia

Heavy periods don’t happen for just one reason. There are various factors behind this problem, such as hormonal changes, medical conditions, and dietary habits.

Hormonal imbalance: Oestrogen and progesterone are two important hormones in the female body. These help regulate the menstrual cycle. 

But when these hormones become imbalanced, it can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding. However, there are various reasons for these hormone imbalances, like

• Anovulation.
• Thyroid disease.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Non-cancerous growths in the uterus: Sometimes, harmless growths or changes inside the uterus can lead to heavy periods. 

These happen when uterine cells grow in an unusual way. Common causes include:

• Polyps
• Fibroids
• Adenomyosis

Infection

Some infections can also cause heavy bleeding during periods. This includes certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other uterine infections, such as:

• Trichomoniasis
• Gonorrhea
• Chlamydia
• Chronic endometritis

Pregnancy complications

Heavy bleeding can sometimes be a sign of problems during pregnancy. These may include:

• Miscarriage
• Ectopic pregnancy
• C-section niche (a scar-related issue after a C-section)

Diagnosis of Menorrhagia

To diagnose menorrhagia, your gynaecologist may ask you various questions about your medical history, menstrual cycle and more. She may also perform a physical examination and recommend a few medical tests to find the exact cause of your problem. These are:

• Physical and pelvic examination
• Blood tests for anemia or hormone imbalances
• Ultrasound to detect fibroids, polyps, or other abnormalities
• Pap smear to rule out cervical issues
• Endometrial biopsy in some cases

Treatment Options for Menorrhagia

Every patient’s needs are different. That’s why doctors create a personalised treatment plan based on the patient’s age, the severity of the condition, and the underlying cause. Whether it’s a young girl, a working woman, or someone nearing menopause, treatment is planned to suit individual needs. Medical treatments may include:

• In some women, heavy periods improve on their own, especially when caused by mild hormonal changes or weight-related issues.
• Doctors usually start with medications before suggesting any procedures.
• Iron supplements may be advised to treat low iron levels or anaemia.
• Pain-relief medicines can help reduce cramps and bleeding.
• Hormonal treatments, such as birth control pills or hormonal IUDs, may help regulate periods and lighten flow.
• Medicines that help control blood loss may be recommended in certain cases.

If medicines don’t help, minor procedures may be suggested to treat issues like fibroids or polyps. Surgery is usually considered only when other treatments don’t work.

Your gynaecologist will suggest the most suitable treatment based on your reports and symptoms, with the aim of reducing bleeding and improving your quality of life.

When to See a Gynaecologist for Heavy Periods

Consult a gynaecologist if:

• Heavy bleeding lasts more than two cycles
• You feel extremely tired or short of breath
• Periods interfere with work, sleep, or daily life
• You pass large blood clots frequently
• You suspect anemia or hormonal issues

Final Thoughts

Menorrhagia is a medical condition in which a woman experiences heavy periods. A normal menstrual period usually lasts up to 7 days, but if bleeding continues beyond this, it may be menorrhagia. Hence, it’s important for you to consult your gynaecologist immediately. An untreated condition can impact your overall well-being.

FAQ

What is the normal duration and blood loss during periods for Indian women?

A typical period lasts 3–7 days, with an average blood loss of 30–40 ml, and should not disrupt daily life.

Is menorrhagia dangerous if left untreated?

Yes, it can lead to anaemia, severe fatigue, and complications from underlying conditions.

Can stress and lifestyle issues cause heavy periods in working women?

Yes, chronic stress, irregular sleep, poor diet, and lack of exercise can disrupt hormones and contribute to heavy periods.

Which home remedies can help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding naturally?

Iron-rich foods, staying hydrated, light exercise, and stress management may support menstrual health, but medical guidance is essential.

Can thyroid problems lead to menorrhagia?

Yes, both underactive and overactive thyroid conditions can affect hormones and cause heavy or irregular periods.

Does menorrhagia affect pregnancy or fertility?

Menorrhagia itself may not cause infertility, but untreated underlying issues like hormonal imbalances or fibroids can affect fertility.