Excessive Menstrual Bleeding, Common Causes

Symptoms of menorrhagia:

· Soiling one or more sanitary pads per hour
· Needing more sanitary pads per session
· Waking up at night to change sanitary pads
· Presence of large blood clots in the bleeding
· Decreased daily activities due to excessive bleeding
· Anemia
· Fatigue
· Shortness of breath

You should see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

· Heavy bleeding
· Irregular bleeding
· Any bleeding after menopause

Common Causes of Menorrhagia

1. Hormonal Imbalance: In a normal menstrual cycle, the balance between the hormones estrogen and progesterone regulates the formation of the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium). The endometrium is shed during menstrual bleeding. If the balance between hormones is disrupted, the endometrium is produced in excessive amounts and is eventually expelled from the body through heavy bleeding.
2. Ovarian Dysfunction: If ovulation does not occur in a menstrual cycle, the hormone progesterone is not produced. This disorder causes hormonal imbalance and, as a result, excessive bleeding.
3. Uterine Fibroids: These are benign, noncancerous tumors that manifest themselves during the reproductive years. Uterine fibroids may cause heavy or prolonged bleeding.

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4. Polyps: Small, benign growths in the lining of the uterus that may cause heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding. Uterine polyps are more common in women of childbearing age due to high hormone levels.
5. Adenomyosis: This is when endometrial glands grow into the muscles of the uterus, often causing heavy bleeding and painful periods.
6. Cancer: Rarely, cancer of the uterus, ovaries, and cervix can cause excessive bleeding during menstruation.
7. Pregnancy Problems: Heavy bleeding may occur due to miscarriage. If bleeding occurs at the usual time, miscarriage is not the cause. Ectopic pregnancy may also cause excessive bleeding.

8. IUD: Menorrhagia is common in women who use an IUD for birth control. If the IUD causes excessive menstrual bleeding, it should be removed.
9. Inherited Blood Disorders: Some blood clotting disorders, such as low platelet count, can cause excessive menstrual bleeding.

Risk Factors for Menorrhagia

Complications of Menorrhagia