top of page

Excessive Menstrual Bleeding

Writer's picture: Dr. Karuturi SubrahmanyamDr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam

Menstruation is a normal physiological process that occurs in women of reproductive age, wherein the uterus sheds its lining, resulting in the release of blood and other fluids from the vagina. While the amount of menstrual bleeding can vary from woman to woman, some may experience excessive bleeding, which can be concerning and affect their quality of life.


What is Excessive Menstrual Bleeding?


Excessive menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, is a condition where a woman experiences heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than seven days. In this condition, a woman may need to change her tampon or pad frequently, or even use both together to manage the flow. Women with menorrhagia may also experience clots in the menstrual blood.


What Causes Excessive Menstrual Bleeding?


There can be many causes of excessive menstrual bleeding, such as:

  1. Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances such as estrogen and progesterone can affect the menstrual cycle, leading to heavy bleeding.

  2. Uterine Fibroids: Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.

  3. Endometrial Polyps: Endometrial polyps are abnormal growths in the lining of the uterus that can cause heavy menstrual bleeding.

  4. Adenomyosis: Adenomyosis is a condition in which the lining of the uterus grows into the muscle wall, leading to heavy menstrual bleeding.

  5. Certain Medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners, can cause excessive menstrual bleeding.

  6. Thyroid Problems: Thyroid problems can also lead to hormonal imbalances, which can cause excessive menstrual bleeding.

  7. Viral Infections: Some women experience excessive menstrual bleeding after recovery from a recent viral infection.


What are the Symptoms of Excessive Menstrual Bleeding?


The symptoms of excessive menstrual bleeding include:

  1. Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.

  2. Needing to change tampons or pads frequently, or using both together.

  3. Clots in the menstrual blood.

  4. Anemia (low red blood cell count) due to excessive bleeding.

  5. Fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath due to anemia.


How is Excessive Menstrual Bleeding Treated?


The treatment of excessive menstrual bleeding depends on its underlying cause. Some common treatment options include:

  1. Hormonal Therapy: Hormonal therapy can be used to balance the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body, reducing heavy menstrual bleeding.

  2. Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can reduce heavy menstrual bleeding and relieve menstrual cramps.

  3. Iron Supplements: Iron supplements can help to treat anemia caused by excessive menstrual bleeding.

  4. Surgery: Surgery may be required to remove fibroids or polyps that are causing heavy menstrual bleeding.

  5. Endometrial Ablation: Endometrial ablation is a procedure that removes the lining of the uterus, reducing or stopping menstrual bleeding.


Excessive menstrual bleeding is a common problem that can significantly impact a woman's quality of life. It is important to seek medical advice if you are experiencing heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. With the right treatment, women can manage their excessive menstrual bleeding and improve their overall health and well-being.


Natural Home Remedies to stop excessive Menstrual Bleeding


While medical treatments are available to manage this condition, some women prefer to try natural home remedies first. Here are some natural home remedies that may help stop excessive menstrual bleeding:

  • Ginger: Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. Drinking ginger tea or adding ginger to your diet can help manage menorrhagia.

  • Cinnamon: Cinnamon has anticoagulant properties that can help reduce heavy bleeding during menstruation. Adding cinnamon to your diet or drinking cinnamon tea can help manage menorrhagia.

  • Turmeric: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. Adding turmeric to your diet or drinking turmeric tea can help manage menorrhagia.

  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is rich in acetic acid, which can help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it twice a day during your period.

  • Iron-rich Foods: Consuming iron-rich foods such as spinach, kale, beans, and red meat can help prevent anemia caused by heavy menstrual bleeding.

  • Vitamin C: Vitamin C can help strengthen blood vessels and reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. Eating vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits, kiwi, and broccoli can help manage menorrhagia.

  • Hydration: Staying hydrated during your period can help prevent excessive menstrual bleeding. Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeinated and sugary drinks.

  • Exercise: Regular exercise can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. Engage in light to moderate exercise during your period to manage menorrhagia.

  • Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that can help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. Drinking chamomile tea during your period can help manage menorrhagia.

  • Rest and Relaxation: Getting enough rest and relaxation during your period can help reduce stress and manage menorrhagia.


While natural home remedies can help manage menorrhagia, it is important to seek medical advice if your bleeding is excessively heavy or if you experience severe pain or other symptoms. Your doctor can help determine the underlying cause of your menorrhagia and recommend appropriate medical treatment.


Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam, MD, FRCP (London), FACP (USA)

Internal Medicine Specialist


Kify Hospital

Danavaipeta

Rajahmundry

Phone : 85000 23456

Comments


Kify Hospital

Near Nune Ganuga

Danavaipeta​

Rajahmundry - 533103

85000 23456

  • YouTube
  • c-facebook

Open 24 Hours a Day, 365 Days a Year 

© 2013 Kify Hospital

bottom of page