Understanding Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Heavy menstrual bleeding, also called abnormal uterine bleeding, affects many women during their reproductive years and into perimenopause. If your period lasts longer than seven days, causes fatigue from blood loss, or interferes with daily life, it’s important to seek evaluation from a trusted OB/GYN.

Fortunately, many women manage heavy periods successfully without major surgery.

Identify the Root Cause First

Before selecting treatment, your physician will determine the underlying cause. Heavy bleeding may stem from fibroids, hormonal imbalance, endometriosis, thyroid disorders, or perimenopause.

If imaging or further evaluation is needed, your provider may recommend diagnostic procedures such as hysteroscopy or other options outlined in our overview of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery (/minimally-invasive-surgery).

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Hormonal Therapy

Hormonal birth control pills, progesterone therapy, or a hormonal IUD can regulate cycles and significantly reduce bleeding. These treatments also provide contraceptive benefits.

If you are exploring hormonal regulation for cycle control, you may also benefit from reading about our comprehensive Contraceptive Counseling Services (/contraceptive-counseling).

Non-Hormonal Medications

Medications such as tranexamic acid reduce menstrual blood loss without altering hormone levels.

Endometrial Ablation

For women who no longer plan future pregnancies, Endometrial Ablation (/endometrial-ablation) offers a minimally invasive, in-office procedure that reduces or stops heavy bleeding.

Lifestyle Support

Nutritional optimization, iron supplementation, and weight management can support hormonal balance and reduce symptom severity.

Take Control of Your Cycle

Heavy periods should not dictate your schedule. With personalized evaluation and evidence-based care, you can restore balance and improve daily comfort.

Schedule a consultation with Women’s Health and Menopause Center to explore non-surgical treatment options tailored to you.

The post Managing Heavy Periods Without Surgery appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

Some of our patients experience heavy bleeding or bleeding that lasts longer than normal during their periods. An excessive loss of blood could also lead to anemia. Our doctors work with their patients to determine a route cause of any issue and will develop a treatment plan based on your needs.  After a consultation to discuss the symptoms and treatment, your doctor may recommend Endometrial Ablation. Endometrial ablation is a procedure that destroys the lining of your uterus. The goal of ablation is to reduce menstrual flow.

Microwave – Microwave energy destroys the lining With each type of ablation, you may experience some nausea or cramps for a few days after the procedure. You may also see some spotting, but that is expected in the first few days.

Patients report lighter periods two to three months after the procedure.  Doctors do not recommend the procedure to those who may want to get pregnant in the future. The ablation destroys the uterine lining and thus increases the chance of a miscarriage. Our doctors will discuss all risks surrounding the procedure before making a decision.  Reach out to our team today if you believe you are a candidate for endometrial ablation.

The post Endometrial Ablation appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

]]> https://www.whmcenter.com/what-is-a-diagnostic-hysteroscopy/ Thu, 13 Sep 2018 19:19:31 +0000 https://www.whmcenter.com/?p=1346 Diagnostic hysteroscopy is a procedure that lets your doctor examine the inside of your uterus. A tool called a hysteroscope is used. This device is a thin tube that’s illuminated. It is placed into the vagina to provide a closer look at potential problems. It can also be used to confirm test results or as...

The post What Is a Diagnostic Hysteroscopy? appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

]]>

Diagnostic hysteroscopy is a procedure that lets your doctor examine the inside of your uterus. A tool called a hysteroscope is used. This device is a thin tube that’s illuminated. It is placed into the vagina to provide a closer look at potential problems. It can also be used to confirm test results or as part of other procedures, like a laparoscopy.

What Happens During a Hysteroscopy?

This procedure can sometimes be done with local anesthesia in the doctor’s office if it is intended for diagnosis only. Otherwise, general anesthesia is required. After the patient is ready, the hysteroscope is inserted using a solution of sugar and salt that distends the uterus. This allows the doctor to see the uterine cavity. After visual inspection, the doctor may insert different instruments depending on the reason for the procedure.

Most patients recover quickly after undergoing a hysteroscopy. They are usually able to return home the same day. There’s no wound and pain is minimal, so there’s no risk of infection or serious discomfort.

What Procedures Can Include a Hysteroscopy?

A gynecologist may use a hysteroscopy when diagnosing abnormal bleeding. It can also be used to locate polyps or fibroids. Other conditions may call for this procedure as well, including:

• Removal of scarring (intrauterine adhesions)
• Removal of cervical or endometrial polyps
• Removal of fibroids
• Endometrial lining biopsy
• Removal of intrauterine contraceptive device
• Endometrial ablation

If you are experiencing abnormal bleeding or have other concerns, make an appointment with your Women’s Health OB/GYN. They can determine the best diagnostics and treatment plan for you and your condition.

 

The post What Is a Diagnostic Hysteroscopy? appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

]]>