Heavy Periods

Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia) Care at Maria Regina OB/GYN

Heavy menstrual bleeding can affect every aspect of your life—your energy levels, your daily activities, and even your emotional well-being. If you find yourself changing menstrual products frequently, missing work or school due to symptoms, or experiencing fatigue and discomfort, it’s important to seek medical evaluation. At Maria Regina OB/GYN, our experienced providers offer compassionate, comprehensive care to diagnose the cause of heavy periods and provide effective treatment options tailored to your needs.

Heavy Periods Q & A

What is considered a heavy period?

Heavy menstrual bleeding—also known as menorrhagia—affects approximately one in five women each year. It occurs when your period is significantly heavier or longer than normal. You may have heavy periods if you experience:

Menstrual bleeding lasting longer than seven days
Needing to use both a pad and a tampon together for protection
Changing pads or tampons every hour for several consecutive hours
Passing large blood clots (larger than a quarter)
Excessive cramping or pelvic pain
Fatigue, lightheadedness, or symptoms of anemia

Heavy periods are not something you need to “just live with.” They can be a sign of an underlying health issue that deserves proper evaluation.

What causes heavy periods?

Heavy menstrual bleeding can result from a variety of medical conditions or hormonal changes. Common causes include:

Hormonal imbalances affecting ovulation and endometrial development
Thyroid disorders
Uterine fibroids
Uterine polyps
Endometriosis
Obesity
Bleeding disorders

Additionally, certain medications—such as blood thinners—and some birth control methods may contribute to heavier bleeding.

Because the causes vary widely, proper diagnosis is essential to finding the most effective treatment.

How is the cause of heavy periods diagnosed?

At Maria Regina OB/GYN, diagnosis begins with a thorough evaluation of your menstrual history, overall health, and symptoms. Your provider will ask questions about your cycle length, flow intensity, and any associated pain or fatigue.

Diagnostic steps may include:

Blood tests to assess hormone levels, thyroid function, anemia, and clotting disorders
Pelvic ultrasound to check for fibroids, polyps, or structural abnormalities
Hysteroscopy, when needed, to examine the inside of the uterus using a thin, lighted instrument

During hysteroscopy, your provider may also take a biopsy of the uterine lining if abnormal tissue is detected. This helps identify conditions such as hyperplasia or cancer, though most cases of heavy bleeding are not cancer-related.

How are heavy periods treated?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and your personal health goals, including whether you wish to maintain fertility.

Options include:

Medical Management

Hormone therapy to regulate cycles and reduce bleeding
Progestin-releasing IUDs for long-term reduction of menstrual flow
Non-hormonal medications like tranexamic acid to reduce bleeding
Adjustments to birth control methods that may be contributing to symptoms

Minimally Invasive Procedures

Endometrial ablation to remove or thin the uterine lining
Hysteroscopic removal of polyps or fibroids

Surgical Options

Myomectomy to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus
Uterine artery embolization to shrink fibroids by cutting off their blood supply
Hysterectomy in severe cases when other treatments are ineffective and childbearing is complete

If heavy periods are affecting your quality of life, don’t hesitate to seek help. Contact Maria Regina OB/GYN to schedule a consultation. Book online or call our office to receive customized treatment designed to restore comfort, balance, and peace of mind.