Fibroids and Heavy Bleeding

What is Menorrhagia?

Menorrhagia is the medical word for heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. Such bleeding can cause women to become anemic, sometimes requiring a blood transfusion. This condition may be associated with blood loss to the point that it interferes with daily activities. Women may feel tired and dizzy from their anemia. It is not uncommon that fibroids cause heavy bleeding.

Symptoms of Menorrhagia

• Menstrual bleeding soaking through sanitary pads or tampons (for heavy flow) and having to change them constantly
• Passing large blood clots
• Bleeding lasting longer than a week
• Experiencing symptoms of anemia such as shortness of breath, fatigue

How Fibroids Contributes to Heavy Bleeding (Menorrhagia)

There are several theories to explain how fibroids cause heavy bleeding. One explanation suggests that submucosal fibroids (located within the uterine cavity) enlarge the surface area of the endometrium (uterine lining), which may be a cause of heavy menstrual bleeding. Another theory suggests that fibroids contribute to disorders in hormone production, which are involved in the contraction and relaxation of the smooth muscles in the uterus.

Are Fibroids Causing you Heavy Bleeding (Menorrhagia)?

Other causes for menorrhagia including hormone imbalance, or even cancer, need to be evaluated. If you think you have fibroids, schedule an appointment for a professional diagnosis. One of our fibroid surgeons will talk to you about your symptoms and perform a pelvic exam. We may order further testing including an imaging procedure such as an ultrasound. If diagnosed, uterine fibroid embolizationmay be your best treatment option; it has a 90% to 95% success rate with patients according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Here at the Fibroid Treatment Collective, we offer free consultations in-office or over the phone. For more information on fibroids and fibroid symptoms, feel free to contact us at 1 (866) 479-1523.