Normally, menstrual bleeding lasts between three to seven days, but in some women it can last for weeks. This can cause numerous health problems, not to mention the constant discomfort. Although many cases of continuous bleeding are due to hormonal imbalances, it is recommended that women experiencing bleeding longer than seven days, for more than one cycle, see their physician.
Mirena
Mirena is a small T-shaped intrauterine device (IUD) that women use to prevent pregnancy, or treat heavy or continuous menstrual bleeding. During the first week of the menstrual cycle, the Mirena is placed into a woman's uterus. Once there, it will thicken the cervical mucus, prevent sperm from reaching the fallopian tubes and thin the uterine lining. Thinning the uterine lining helps to supress excessive blood flow. Although the Mirena minimizes instances of continuous bleeding or heavy bleeding, women may experience irregular periods within the first three to six months of using it. Bayer Health Care states that women can expect to see a 75 percent reduction in the amount of menstrual bleeding by the third month of usage.
Seasonique
Seasonique is an 91-day oral contraceptive pack that is often used to suppress menstruation. According to Dr. Rosalinda Abboud at MayoClinic.com, women taking Seasonique will experience a period once every three months. The first 84 pills in the pack contain a synthetic mixture of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone, which cause the body to believe it has reached ovulation. The last seven pills of the pack contain a low dose of the female hormone estrogen. This low dose is enough to bring on a woman's period, but not enough to make it heavy. The National Institutes of Health warn that smoking while using Seasonique will increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and blood clots. Women taking Seasonique are encouraged to take it the same time every day to benefit from it.
Microgynon 30
These pills contain synthetic forms of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone, which are naturally produced in the ovaries. To treat continuous bleeding, women take Microgynon 30 once every day for 21 days. The first 21 pills in the pack contain a measured amount of synthetic estrogen and progesterone, which makes the body believe it has entered ovulation. The last seven days of the pack are placebo pills, which contain no hormone. During these seven days, the hormone levels in the body drop to normal. This causes a period, or withdrawal bleeding. Microgynon 30 also has numerous medical benefits that include acne reduction, decreased menstrual cramping, decreased risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer and a decreased risk of ovarian cysts. Symptoms associated with taking combination pills include, but are not limited to, spotting, nausea, headaches, mood changes, weight gain and blood clots. Combined birth control pills are not available over the counter.
