Normal menstruation is an individual set pattern for every lady. A normal menstrual cycle can range from 21 days to 35 days for different females, the blood flow ranging from 3 to 7 days. Whatever the pattern, it does not vary a lot under normal circumstances.
When this pattern changes to abnormally heavy or prolonged bleeding it is termed as menorrhagia.
Symptoms –
When you are suffering from menorrhagia you may experience symptoms such as –
- Bleeding for more than seven days.
- Need to use double sanitary protection.
- Need to change during night hours.
- Passing of blood clots.
- Fatigue, shortness of breath.
Causes-
Certain conditions can be responsible for menorrhagia.
- Hormonal imbalance –
A certain rhythm and balance between the hormones like estrogen and progesterone induce a natural menstrual cycle every month. Disturbance in this balance can be observed in conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome, thyroid dysfunction, obesity, insulin resistance. Resulting imbalance in the hormones can lead to menorrhagia.
- Dysfunctional ovaries –
In a normal menstrual cycle an egg is released every month from an ovary around the 14th day of your cycle. This is followed by secretion of hormone progesterone for about 2 weeks and then the onset of periods if the egg is not fertilised during that particular cycle. If the ovaries are not functioning properly and fail to release the eggs, the cycles are termed as anovulatory cycles. Hormone progesterone is not secreted in an anovulatory cycle and leads to building up of inner lining of the uterus under the influence of the hormone estrogen which is secreted before the release of an egg by the ovary. This extra building up of endometrium leads to heavy bleeding as it sheds off during the menstrual cycle.
- Uterine fibroids –
These are non-cancerous growths of the uterus occurring in the child bearing age. These can cause menorrhagia.
These growths occur in the lining of the uterus and can lead to menorrhagia.
- Adenomyosis –
The inner lining of the uterus which is the endometrium grows in the muscle layer of uterus known as myometrium. This can cause menorrhagia and cramps during periods.
- Other conditions –
- Uterine or cervical cancer.
- Pregnancy complications.
- Certain bleeding disorders.
- Use of some medications such as anti-coagulants, anti-inflammatory medications, hormones.
- Some medical conditions like liver or kidney disease.
- IUD (intra uterine device) –
This can cause menorrhagia in some women.
Finding the underlying causes is extremely important to plan a successful treatment. At Dyumna Women’s clinic our first step is to understand your medical history in details. This is followed by a clinical examination. Some tests are advised as indicated from the case history and clinical examination.
These tests can include-
Blood tests: To evaluate your HAEMOGLOBIN, THYROID FUNCTION, HORMONAL ASSAY and other conditions if required.
PAP smear – Tissue from cervix is examined in a laboratory to check conditions like inflammation, precancerous or cancerous growth.
Endometrial biopsy –Histopathological examination of the tissue of endometrium is performed to check for inflammation, infection, precancerous or cancerous condition.
Ultrasonography – This gives information regarding any fibroids,polyps, endometrial thickness, adenomyosis related to menorrhagia.
At Dyumna Women’s clinic your medical history is a very important tool in planning your personalised treatment protocol. It helps us understand your basic physiological constitution. The clinical examination and investigations provide a well-studied approach for the treatment plan.
Treatment plan comprises of different aspects and are incorporated in the personalised plan as per the need. The basic approach of treatment is not only to control or stop the bleeding during your menstrual cycle, but to establish a regular menstrual cycle with normal bleeding.
Personalised medicines –
Herbomineral formulations are prescribed for oral consumption.
Specialised procedures-
Detoxification and rejuvenating procedures such as Basti, Nasya, Virechan, Uttarbasti are extremely effective in managing menorrhagia and may be advised if needed.
Life style management-
Certain changes related to your diet, sleep, exercise are recommended on a personal basis.
Menorrhagia can be very well managed with good help. Surgery is advisable in cases such as cervical or uterine cancer.