Sometimes a heavy period is just that, but it could also be an indication of an underlying GYN condition—and if left untreated, could lead to anemia. Anemia can cause fatigue, dizziness, irregular heart rhythms, and cognitive problems. Moreover, anemia must be managed using iron supplements or infusions, or even blood transfusions.
How can you tell when monthly period flow is too heavy? A blood test can reveal if you are anemic, but there are other indicators that can help you decide if you need to see a specialist.
The average time interval between the onset of menstrual periods is 21-35 days. Most menstrual periods last no more than seven days, and most women lose no more than 80 cc (or 2.8 ounces) of blood with each cycle. Abnormal bleeding essentially consists of bleeding that occurs outside of these averages: women with an interval less than 21 days or greater than 35 days, with menstrual flows greater than seven days’ duration, or with more than 80 cc of blood loss have abnormal bleeding.
Other things to watch for:
Read more about the underlying GYN conditions that can cause abnormal bleeding on WTOP: Heavy monthly bleeding: When is it too much?
The Center for Innovative GYN Care, with offices in the Washington DC area, provides advanced surgical treatment for complex GYN conditions. CIGC specialists Dr. Natalya Danilyants and Dr. Paul MacKoul have innovated highly advanced techniques such as DualPortGYN and LAAM, to treat fibroids and endometriosis using only two small incisions. Women recover faster, with less pain. To schedule an evaluation, call 888-SURGERY or reach out online.
The average time interval between the onset of menstrual periods is 21-35 days. Most menstrual periods last no more than seven days, and most women lose no more than 80 cc (or 2.8 ounces) of blood with each cycle. Abnormal bleeding essentially consists of bleeding that occurs outside of these averages: women with an interval less than 21 days or greater than 35 days, with menstrual flows greater than seven days’ duration, or with more than 80 cc of blood loss have abnormal bleeding.
Other things to watch for:
- Soaking through super tampons within an hour
- Soaking through menstrual pads
- Symptoms of anemia
Read more about the underlying GYN conditions that can cause abnormal bleeding on WTOP: Heavy monthly bleeding: When is it too much?
The Center for Innovative GYN Care, with offices in the Washington DC area, provides advanced surgical treatment for complex GYN conditions. CIGC specialists Dr. Natalya Danilyants and Dr. Paul MacKoul have innovated highly advanced techniques such as DualPortGYN and LAAM, to treat fibroids and endometriosis using only two small incisions. Women recover faster, with less pain. To schedule an evaluation, call 888-SURGERY or reach out online.