Heavy periods, clinically known as menorrhagia, are caused by many factors. They usually occur when the lining of the uterus becomes thicker than it should each menstrual cycle. As it sheds, a heavy flow occurs. Many women wonder if their periods are heavy enough to warrant treatment. The American Academy of Family Physicians describes menorrhagia as a period lasting more than seven days or with a flow that soaks through one or more pads or tampons in an hour. One consideration your physician may use is whether your periods are heavy or painful enough to interfere with your daily activities. Also, she may determine if your blood loss is making you anemic, which usually indicates the need for treatment.
Oral Contraceptives
A known side effect of taking birth control pills is that they usually reduce the length and volume of menstrual flow. Your physician may order an oral contraceptive for you, even if you do not need birth control. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, these pills contain one or more hormones that cause the lining of the uterus to not become as thick, thus reducing blood flow when the lining is shed.
Progesterone
Progesterone is another hormone that reduces menstrual bleeding. According to the Mayo Clinic, progesterone works by correcting a hormonal imbalance and is usually taken for 10 or more days during each period.
NSAID's
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen are sometimes used to treat menorrhagia. They work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandin, a hormone-like substance found in the uterus that helps to shed the uterine lining each cycle. NSAIDs also relieve the pain and cramping often experienced with a heavy period.
IUD
Commonly thought of as a birth control method, an intrauterine device may also be employed to decrease menstrual bleeding. The American Academy of Family Physicians describes it as a small plastic device placed in the uterus (through the vagina). This device is left in place and releases a hormone that helps to keep the uterine lining thin, thus reducing the amount of menstrual flow.
D and C
Dilitation (sometimes called dilation) and curretage may be performed to ease the symptoms of menorrhagia. In this procedure, the physician widens the cervix so that she can work inside the uterus and then scrapes the endometrial lining. After the uterus has healed from the procedure, your periods should be lighter.
Endometrial Ablation
Endometrial ablation may be used to treat menorrhagia. Different methods are used with the end result being the destruction of the uterine lining. It is performed by going in through the vagina. The American Academy of Family Physician explains that your remaining periods may be absent, light or normal after this procedure and that you may also experience spotting. It usually causes infertility, but birth control should still be used until menopause.
Endometrial Resection
The University of Virginia Health Systems describes endometrial resection as the removal of the uterine lining. This procedure is performed by going in through the vagina. A woman's period is generally absent or light after this procedure. It usually causes infertility, but she must still use birth control as pregnancy is a remote possibility until menopause.
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is the most radical treatment for heavy periods, as the entire uterus is surgically removed. No periods are possible after hysterectomy. The uterus may be taken out through the vagina or by cutting through the skin. Childbirth is no longer a possibility after this surgery.
