Fibroid Symptoms: Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
If you have heavy menstrual bleeding or lengthy periods, you might be among the approximately 1 in 5 women in the United States who’ve developed uterine fibroids, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Although heavy periods are not necessarily concerning, regular heavy bleeding could be an indication of a reproductive disorder, like uterine fibroids, that might become increasingly symptomatic.
At Dallas Fibroid Center, we recognize that uterine fibroids often cause significant menstrual discomfort and pain that can worsen if left unaddressed.
The following information examines the relationship between fibroids and heavy menstrual bleeding.
What is a heavy period?
According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), National Library of Medicine (NLM) estimates that roughly 26 million women between the ages of 15 and 50 have fibroid growths, and 15 million have symptomatic fibroids. Symptomatic fibroids cause pain, discomfort, fertility challenges, or other noticeable physical anomalies like weight gain or heavy menstrual bleeding.
Heavy menstrual bleeding is also called menorrhagia. Symptoms of menorrhagia include the following:
- Active bleeding lasting more than eight days
- Menstrual bleeding that requires hourly pad or tampon changes
Why is heavy menstrual bleeding a symptom of fibroids?
Fibroids cause numerous uncomfortable symptoms, but heavy bleeding is the most common.
There is no definitive causal explanation for the heavy bleeding associated with fibroids. However, certain factors might contribute to excessive bleeding, including the following:
- Fibroids put additional pressure on the uterus
- Disordered uterine contractions
- Fibroids stimulate blood vessel growth, contributing to increased bleeding and spotting between cycles
- Hormonal elevation
When Heavy Bleeding Becomes Dangerous
Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) can lead to anemia, a condition in which your blood doesn't contain enough red blood cells. Additionally, studies suggest that a heavy period can take a toll on your mental health, leaving you struggling with fear, anxiety, and even anger.
But how can you decide if your period flow is unusually heavy? We suggest talking to your doctor if you have to change your menstrual products in an hour or less. You should also discuss overnight bleeding that's heavy enough to stain your sheets.
Uterine Fibroid Treatments Reduce Heavy Bleeding
At Dallas Fibroid Center, our specialists have in-depth experience helping women overcome fibroid symptoms through minimally invasive, targeted treatments. We understand how symptomatic fibroids can affect your quality of life and are here to help.
Please contact us today to learn more about our state-of-the-art treatment protocols or schedule an appointment.
