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Four reasons NOT to ignore heavy menstrual bleeding.

Bleeding through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours, requiring extra protection for nighttime bleeding or passing blood clots approximately the size of a quarter or larger. Does any of this sound familiar?

Heavy menstrual bleeding, or menorrhagia, shouldn’t be ignored as it can cause other complications or signal another health problem. Here are four things to be aware of if you’re experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding:

1. Persistent heavy menstrual bleeding may cause anemia.

Losing too much blood due to heavy menstrual bleeding can cause mild to severe anemia. Anemia symptoms include weakness, fatigue, dizziness, and pale skin. It may also cause rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, headaches, and problems with concentration.

2. Heavy menstrual bleeding may signal uterine problems

Heavy menstrual bleeding can be a symptom of several uterine problems that require care from our OBGYNs. Potential uterine problems include:

  • Uterine fibroids
  • Uterine polyps
  • Endometriosis
  • Adenomyosis

3. Heavy menstrual bleeding could indicate a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy

If you’re experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, especially if it’s brown or bright red in color, it may indicate that you are having a miscarriage. You may also experience heavy bleeding during an ectopic pregnancy. If left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can cause serious complications.

4. Heavy menstrual bleeding can be a sign of cancer

Heavy menstrual bleeding or heavy bleeding during another time of the month may be a sign of certain cancers, including endometrial, uterine or cervical cancer.

Our ObGyns diagnose and treat heavy menstrual bleeding

If you’re experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, request an appointment to see one of our OBGYNs. Heavy menstrual bleeding is not normal, and it can be a sign that there is a problem that needs to be diagnosed and treated. Ignoring it can lead to unnecessary complications and pain.

Our OBGYNs have the experience to provide the most up-to-date diagnostic techniques and treatments, including minimally invasive surgery if needed.