Heavy bleeding can be a frustrating and concerning experience, especially if it happens unexpectedly or disrupts your daily routine. If you are experiencing Lake Mary heavy bleeding, you are not alone. Many women have heavy periods that make walking, exercising, or even getting enough rest difficult. Although it is normal to experience some bleeding during periods, heavy bleeding can indicate an underlying medical condition that requires attention. Here are the common causes of heavy bleeding.
Hormonal imbalances
A complex interplay of hormones regulates your menstrual cycle. When these hormones get out of balance, it can lead to heavy bleeding. For example, if you have too much estrogen and not enough progesterone, your uterine lining can grow too thick, leading to heavier bleeding when you shed it during your period.
Hormonal imbalances can result from weight gain or loss and certain medications. In some cases, they may also be related to underlying health conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid problems.
Uterine fibroids
Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that can grow in the uterus. They are very common, affecting up to 80% of women at some point in their lives. While most fibroids are small and don’t cause problems, larger ones can lead to heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and other symptoms.
Uterine fibroids occur when the inner walls of the uterus develop overgrowths. They mostly affect females who are over the age of 30. Also, if you have a family member with uterine fibroids, you are at a higher risk of getting them.
Adenomyosis
Adenomyosis is a condition characterized by the growth of the uterus lining into the uterus muscles. This can lead to heavy bleeding, cramping, and pain during your period. Adenomyosis is most common in women in their 40s and 50s and women who have had multiple pregnancies.
Adenomyosis can be difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions, such as endometriosis.
Uterine polyps
Uterine polyps are small growths that develop on the lining of the uterus. They are usually non-cancerous but can cause heavy bleeding, spotting between periods, and other symptoms. Polyps are more common in women who are in their 40s and 50s. Uterine polyps result from hormonal imbalances. They can also be caused by inflammation in the uterus.
Uterine cancer
While cancer is not a common cause of heavy bleeding, it is important to be aware of the possibility. Uterine cancer is one of the most common gynecological cancers, and heavy bleeding is one of the most common symptoms. Other symptoms may include pelvic pain, abdominal swelling, and weight loss.
Uterine cancer is most common in postmenopausal women but can occur at any age. The risk factors for uterine cancer include obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and a history of estrogen therapy.
If you are experiencing heavy bleeding, visit your doctor to determine the cause. Your doctor may perform a physical exam, a pelvic exam, and other tests, such as an ultrasound or a biopsy. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of your heavy bleeding. Call Christopher Quinsey, MD, to book your appointment for treatment of heavy bleeding.
