In general, menstrual flow begins every 28 days and lasts for four to seven days. However, the menstrual cycle varies from woman to woman, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Menorrhagia refers to periods that are heavier than normal or that last for seven days or more every month. If you suffer from polymenorrhea, your cycle length is less than 21 days. Heavy or irregular periods can be frustrating and even embarrassing if you're not prepared. Being proactive and seeking professional advice can help normalize your periods.
Step 1
Visit a family doctor. He may recommend you see a gynaecologist to ensure that your heavy or irregular periods are not caused by an underlying medical problem such as an iron deficiency or fibroids. Disclose information about your past and current medical status, including other symptoms you may have, sexual history and drugs or herbs you're taking.
Step 2
Ask your doctor about taking tranexamic acid, which is a drug that blocks enzymes that dissolve blood clots in the uterus. According to the "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews," women that have heavy menstrual periods have more of these enzymes than women with normal menstrual blood loss.
Step 3
Ask your doctor about taking natural supplements such as essential fatty acids, iron, black cohosh, dong quai and evening primrose oil to cope with heavy or irregular periods. Consult a naturopath if your family doctor is not familiar with these supplements.
Step 4
Ask about the risks associated with taking any medication or natural remedy that helps lighten and regulate menstrual flow.
Step 5
Follow the instructions for taking any medication or natural supplement your doctor prescribes. Do not exceed the dose or mix it with any other herb or supplement or medication without discussing it with your doctor first.
Tips and Warnings
- Exercising daily and staying fit can help regulate menstrual periods, according to the website NetDoctor. Ask your doctor for advice on taking iron and folic acid supplements if the heavy bleeding has caused you to become anemic. Take time to carefully consider a surgical recommendation your doctor might make to treat an underlying problem that is causing your menstrual symptoms. Get a second opinion.
- Do not attempt to self-medicate to lighten or stabilize your periods. Watch for any adverse reactions from herbs or supplements you take, such as a worsening of your menstrual symptoms, nausea, diarrhea or an allergic response. Do not take aspirin during your period as it can prolong bleeding, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Menstrual Dysfunction
- American Family Physician: Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia)
- Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews: Antifibrinolytics for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
- Association of Women for the Advancement of Research and Education: Menstrual Irregularities
- NetDoctor: The Menstrual Cycle
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Black Cohosh
