Do you have heavy periods and increased menstrual bleeding? You’re not alone. Nearly 1 in 5 women experience heavy menstrual bleeding each year in the United States.
While an occasional heavy period, or heavy period day, is typically not something to worry about, experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding regularly could signify a more serious reproductive condition, such as uterine fibroids.
At Houston Fibroids, we understand that a fibroid diagnosis is often the conclusion after the onset of debilitating and painful symptoms.
From cramping to heavy bleeding, fibroids can cause many life-changing side effects and fertility issues when left untreated, especially if they grow in size or number over time.
Let’s explore the link between fibroids and heavy bleeding.
What is considered heavy bleeding?
According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), an estimated 26 million women between 15 and 50 have uterine fibroids. Of those, nearly 15 million women experience associated symptoms or linked health-related problems, such as heavy menstrual bleeding.
Heavy menstrual bleeding, or menorrhagia, can be defined in two ways:
- Bleeding that lasts for longer than eight days.
- Bleeding that requires frequent sanitary pad or tampon changes, approximately every hour or more.
Why do fibroids cause heavy bleeding?
Heavy bleeding is the most common among all the potential symptoms that fibroids can cause.
While there is no one reason that heavy bleeding occurs with fibroids, there are several factors that contribute to this symptom, including:
- Added pressure on the uterus from the fibroids
- Irregular contractions of the uterus
- Blood vessel growth stimulation caused by fibroids that increases the amount and frequency of bleeding and spotting between periods
- Elevated hormone levels
Fibroid Treatment Reduces Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
At Houston Fibroids, we understand the negative impact heavy bleeding and other fibroid symptoms can have on your everyday life.
The good news is that our team of experienced physicians and medical professionals offers comprehensive care and state-of-the-art treatment to get rid of fibroids and alleviate heavy bleeding before your next period.
To learn more or schedule a personalized consultation, contact us today.
