This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is menorrhagia?
Menorrhagia refers to abnormally heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. Women with menorrhagia may soak through pads or tampons frequently, experience bleeding for more than 7 days, or pass large blood clots.
2. How common is menorrhagia?
Menorrhagia is common and can affect women of all reproductive ages. It is more frequent in women with hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, or bleeding disorders.
3. What causes menorrhagia?
Common causes include:
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
- Hormonal imbalances (estrogen and progesterone)
- Endometriosis
- Thyroid disorders
- Blood clotting disorders
- Certain medications (e.g., anticoagulants)
- Sometimes no identifiable cause (idiopathic)
4. What are the symptoms?
- Excessive menstrual bleeding (soaking through pads or tampons quickly)
- Passing large clots
- Periods lasting longer than 7 days
- Fatigue or weakness due to anemia
- Disruption of daily activities
5. How is menorrhagia diagnosed?
A GP diagnoses menorrhagia based on:
- Medical history and menstrual pattern
- Physical examination and pelvic exam
- Blood tests to check for anemia or hormone levels
- Ultrasound to assess the uterus for fibroids or polyps
- Sometimes endometrial biopsy if needed
6. How is menorrhagia treated?
Treatment depends on cause and severity:
- Medications: Hormonal contraceptives, tranexamic acid, NSAIDs, or hormone therapy to reduce bleeding
- Surgery: Procedures like endometrial ablation, myomectomy (fibroid removal), or hysterectomy in severe cases
- Lifestyle: Iron supplements if anemia is present
7. Can menorrhagia affect fertility?
Menorrhagia itself does not usually cause infertility. However, the underlying cause, such as fibroids or endometriosis, may affect fertility in some women.
8. Can lifestyle changes help?
Yes. Maintaining a healthy weight, balanced diet rich in iron, regular exercise, and managing stress can help reduce symptoms and support overall health. These changes complement medical treatment.
9. Is menorrhagia dangerous?
Menorrhagia can lead to iron-deficiency anemia, causing fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Severe bleeding may require urgent medical attention or blood transfusion in rare cases.
10. When should I see a GP urgently?
Seek urgent care if you experience:
- Extremely heavy bleeding or soaking through pads/tampons every hour
- Severe fatigue, dizziness, or fainting
- Large clots (larger than a golf ball)
- Bleeding between periods or after menopause
Early assessment ensures proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.
