Polymenorrhea is the medical term used to describe prolonged menstrual bleeding. The rise and fall of hormonal levels during the month control the menstrual cycle. The cycle is general between 21 and 35 days long and begins on the first day of the period, ending on the first day of the next period. Periods generally last between two and seven days. Doctors recommend that any woman over the age of 21 who is sexually active has yearly pelvic exams and Pap smears. Women who experience prolonged periods or bleeding after menopause should seek medical help.
Fibroids
According to the United States National Library of Medicine, fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that develop inside the uterus. They are rare in women under 20 and often disappear in post-menopausal women. They can be so small that a microscope is required to see them or so large that they take up the entire uterus. The most common symptoms of fibroids are heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding that sometimes includes the passage of large blood clots.
Intrauterine Device
A form of birth control that is inserted into the uterus by a physician, the intrauterine device is designed to cause irritation to the uterine wall so implantation of a fertilized egg is not possible. According to Dr. Mary Bovo, MD, board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, this device can cause so much irritation that the uterus cannot stop bleeding after the normal period has stopped. The woman may also experience cramping and heavy clotting.
Bleeding Disorder
According to Dr. Bovo, blood clotting disorders, such as Von Willebrand disease, factor abnormalities or hemophilia can also cause prolonged menstrual bleeding each month. Periods may be heavy and last longer than 10 days. Doctors may use family history, examination and blood testing to diagnose these issues.
Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal balance between progesterone and estrogen will regulate the buildup of the uterine lining. This lining is shed during menstruation. According to Mayo Clinic physicians, when imbalances occur, they can prolong the length of the menstrual period and increase the amount of bleeding. Lack of ovulation can be one cause of hormonal imbalances that result in prolonged periods or heavy flow.
Uterine Polyps
Uterine polyps are small, benign growths in the lining of the uterus. According to physicians at Mayo Clinic, these growths can cause heavy or prolonged bleeding. The polyps commonly occur in younger women of reproductive age as a result of high hormone levels.
Cancer
Although a rare occurrence, uterine, cervical or ovarian cancer can cause excessive menstrual bleeding. Menstrual periods may also be prolonged and occur between periods or after intercourse. Physicians will use examination and biopsy to determine the specific type of cancer and recommend appropriate treatment protocols.
