Heavy Bleeding (Menorrhagia)

Heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, is more than just a heavy period. It is a common condition that can interfere with daily life, cause fatigue, and lead to anemia if left untreated. At Complete Care ObGyn, our Henderson OB/GYN team helps patients identify the cause of heavy bleeding and find effective, individualized treatment.

If your periods are consistently heavy, prolonged, or difficult to manage, evaluation and care can make a meaningful difference.

What Is Considered Heavy Menstrual Bleeding?

Your period may be considered heavy if you experience one or more of the following:

• Bleeding that lasts longer than seven days
• Needing to change a pad or tampon every one to two hours
• Passing large blood clots, larger than a quarter
• Waking at night to change menstrual protection
• Bleeding that soaks through clothing or bedding
• Symptoms of anemia such as fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath

Common Causes of Heavy Bleeding

Heavy periods can result from a range of medical and hormonal factors. Identifying the cause is key to choosing the right treatment.

Hormonal causes may include:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Thyroid dysfunction
• Perimenopause or irregular ovulation

Structural causes may include:

• Uterine fibroids
• Endometrial polyps
• Adenomyosis
• Endometriosis

Other contributing factors may include:

• Blood clotting disorders
• Certain medications such as blood thinners
• Use or recent removal of some types of IUDs
• Pregnancy-related complications

When to Seek Medical Care

You should schedule a visit if:

• Heavy bleeding occurs month after month
• You need to change pads or tampons more often than every one to two hours
• You pass large or frequent clots
• You experience pain, fatigue, dizziness, or lightheadedness
• Bleeding interferes with work, sleep, or daily activities
• You have concerns about fertility or future pregnancy

Diagnosis

Evaluation begins with a detailed review of your menstrual history and symptoms. Diagnostic testing may include:

• Pelvic exam
• Blood tests to check for anemia, thyroid function, or clotting issues
• Pelvic imaging through in-office ultrasound services
• Endometrial biopsy when needed to evaluate the uterine lining
• Hysteroscopy for closer evaluation of the uterus, if indicated

These tests help guide safe and effective treatment planning.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cause of bleeding, your age, and whether you plan to become pregnant.

Nonsurgical treatment options may include:

• Hormonal birth control to regulate cycles or reduce bleeding, discussed through birth control and family planning
• Medications such as tranexamic acid or NSAIDs to reduce blood loss
• Treatment for thyroid or hormonal imbalances
• Iron supplementation and nutritional guidance to address anemia

Minimally invasive procedures may include:

• Removal of uterine polyps or fibroids
• Endometrial ablation to reduce or stop menstrual bleeding
• Uterine artery embolization to shrink fibroids

Surgical options may include:

• Myomectomy to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus
• Hysterectomy when other treatments are not effective and childbearing is complete

Take Control of Your Menstrual Health

Heavy menstrual bleeding is common, but it is not something you have to live with. With the right evaluation and care, symptoms can often be significantly improved.

Schedule an appointment with Complete Care ObGyn in Henderson, NV to discuss heavy periods and explore treatment options that fit your health goals.