How To Stop Heavy Periods: Effective Treatment

Heavy menstrual bleeding or heavy bleeding during periods is a common problem that affects many women, causing significant disruption to their daily lives. If you experience bleeding that lasts more than seven days or requires changing sanitary products every two hours, you may be suffering from heavy periods or menorrhagia. This condition can lead to fatigue, anaemia, and a decreased quality of life. Understanding the causes of heavy menstrual bleeding is the first step in finding effective treatment options.

Causes of Heavy Periods

Several factors can contribute to heavy menstrual bleeding, including:

• Hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or hypothyroidism
• Uterine problems, like fibroids, polyps, or cancer
• Bleeding disorders that affect blood clotting, such as von Willebrand disease
• Certain medications, including blood thinners, aspirin, and some birth control methods
• Pregnancy-related issues, such as miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy

Identifying the underlying cause of your heavy periods is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment approach.

Effective Treatments to Stop Heavy Periods

Fortunately, there are several effective treatments available to help manage and stop heavy periods. Hormonal birth control methods such as oral contraceptives or intrauterine devices (IUDs) can help regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce bleeding.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and tranexamic acid can also provide relief by decreasing blood flow and alleviating pain. In more severe cases, surgical options like dilation and curettage (D&C), endometrial ablation, or hysterectomy may be considered.

Your doctor will work with you to determine the best course of action based on your individual needs and the underlying cause of your heavy menstrual bleeding.

Dietary changes for heavy menstruation

Making dietary modifications can help reduce symptoms associated with heavy menstruation, although they may not directly stop the heavy bleeding. Focusing on a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can prevent anaemia and other complications. Incorporating iron-rich foods, increasing vitamin C intake, and cooking in cast-iron pots are some beneficial dietary changes that can help manage heavy periods. One simple yet effective dietary change is to drink plenty of water during menstruation. Details about some of these approaches are given below.

1) Drink plenty of water

• Aim to drink an extra 4 to 6 cups of water each day during your period to maintain blood volume.
• Consider adding a sprinkle of salt to your meals or consuming more electrolytes to balance fluid intake and prevent dehydration.
• Staying hydrated can help decrease symptoms like fatigue and dizziness often accompanying heavy menstrual bleeding.

2) Prioritise iron-rich foods

In addition to staying hydrated, prioritising iron-rich foods in your diet is crucial during heavy menstruation. They are essential to counteract the iron loss during heavy periods. Incorporating iron-rich foods into your diet can help replenish iron levels and prevent iron-deficiency anaemia. Some excellent sources of iron include:

• Shellfish, liver, and lean meats like ground beef
• Legumes such as lentils, beans, and chickpeas
• Pumpkin seeds and leafy greens like spinach and kale

3) Cook in a cast-iron pot or pan

Cooking in a cast-iron pot or pan can naturally increase your iron intake. Foods with high moisture content, such as sauces, absorb more iron from the pot than dry foods. Stirring the pot frequently can further enhance iron absorption. However, it’s important to avoid overusing the cast-iron pot to prevent excessive iron intake.

4) Increase your vitamin C intake

Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron more effectively. Pairing iron-rich foods with sources of vitamin C enhances iron absorption and helps prevent anaemia. To boost your vitamin C intake, include foods such as:

• Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits
• Berries, including strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries
• Tomatoes and leafy greens like kale and spinach

5) Swap brown sugar for blackstrap molasses

Another simple dietary swap that can provide additional nutrients is to use blackstrap molasses instead of brown sugar. Blackstrap molasses is a good source of iron and other essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and selenium. By switching to blackstrap molasses in your recipes, you can provide your body with an additional boost of these vital minerals, helping to counteract the nutritional losses during heavy menstruation.

OTC and prescription medication for heavy menstruation

Various over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications can help manage heavy menstrual bleeding. These include pain relievers, hormonal treatments, and medications that promote blood clotting. However, it’s essential to choose the right medication for your specific needs. Here are some points to keep in mind.

1) Some OTC pain relievers can worsen symptoms, so be sure to review the ingredients

When selecting an OTC pain reliever for heavy menstrual bleeding, it’s crucial to avoid those containing aspirin. Aspirin can increase bleeding by inhibiting platelet aggregation. Instead, opt for non-aspirin pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen, which are safer and more effective in managing heavy menstrual flow. If you’re unsure about the ingredients in a particular medication, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for guidance.

2) Hormonal birth control may help reduce bleeding and cramping

Hormonal birth control methods, such as IUDs and progestin-dominant oral contraceptives, can significantly reduce heavy menstrual bleeding and associated cramping. These methods work by thinning the uterine lining, resulting in lighter periods. Combination pills and contraceptive injections are also effective in reducing bleeding. In addition to decreasing menstrual symptoms, hormonal birth control provides contraceptive benefits, making it a popular choice for many women.

3) Progestin tablets can be used as a stand-alone treatment for heavy bleeding

For women who prefer not to use hormonal birth control, progestin tablets can be prescribed as a standalone treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding. These tablets work by thinning the uterine lining, thus reducing blood loss during menstruation. Progestin tablets are not a form of contraception and can be used in conjunction with other hormonal or nonhormonal treatments. They are often recommended when other treatments are not suitable or effective.

4) Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) therapies may provide short-term relief

In severe cases, GnRH therapies can offer short-term relief by suppressing the menstrual cycle. These therapies work by reducing the production of hormones that stimulate the uterine lining, thereby minimising bleeding. However, due to their potential side effects, they are typically reserved for severe cases and are not suitable for long-term use. For those seeking a non-hormonal treatment option, antifibrinolytic drugs may be a viable alternative.

5) If you don’t want to take hormones, antifibrinolytic drugs may be an option

Antifibrinolytic drugs, such as tranexamic acid, are a non-hormonal treatment option for heavy menstrual bleeding. Tranexamic acid works by inhibiting the breakdown of blood clots, thereby reducing menstrual blood loss. It is available both by prescription and over-the-counter and does not affect fertility or other menstrual symptoms. This medication is taken only during menstruation and is not a form of birth control, making it a suitable choice for women who prefer to avoid hormonal treatments.

Nonsurgical and surgical procedures for heavy periods

When nonsurgical treatments like hormonal contraceptives, tranexamic acid, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) fail to control heavy menstrual bleeding effectively, surgical procedures may be considered. These options are particularly relevant for women who do not wish to have children in the future. Let’s explore some of these procedures in more detail.

1) High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU)

HIFU is a minimally invasive technique used to treat uterine fibroids, which are a frequent cause of heavy menstrual bleeding. This procedure employs ultrasound waves to precisely target and alter or destroy tissues in the body.

2) Uterine artery embolization (UAE)

This method involves injecting tiny particles into the uterine arteries to block blood flow to fibroids. By reducing the size of the fibroids, UAE can significantly reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. This procedure is an excellent alternative to surgical options like hysterectomy for women with fibroid-related bleeding.

3) Myomectomy

Myomectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing uterine fibroids while leaving the uterus intact. This option is recommended for women who experience heavy bleeding due to fibroids and wish to retain their fertility. By removing the fibroids, myomectomy can significantly reduce menstrual blood loss and decrease symptoms.

4) Endometrial ablation

Endometrial ablation is a procedure that destroys or ablates the lining of the uterus, either by burning or freezing, to reduce or stop menstrual bleeding. This method is suitable for women who do not wish to have children. However, there is a risk that the uterine lining can regrow, which may necessitate repeat procedures.

5) Endometrial resection

This is a less invasive alternative to endometrial ablation. Endometrial resection involves removing a portion of the uterine lining using a hysteroscope to reduce menstrual bleeding. However, it may not completely eliminate periods and can be less effective than ablation in some cases.

5) Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the uterus, which is the most definitive way to stop heavy menstrual bleeding. This option is typically recommended for women who have completed their families and have severe bleeding that has not responded to other treatments. While hysterectomy is a more extensive procedure than endometrial ablation, it provides long-term relief from heavy menstrual bleeding.

Heavy menstrual bleeding, or menorrhagia, can have a significant impact on a woman’s quality of life, causing inconvenience, discomfort, and even health complications such as anaemia. Effective treatments for this condition range from nonsurgical options like hormonal contraceptives and NSAIDs to surgical procedures such as myomectomy, endometrial ablation, and hysterectomy. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the underlying cause of the heavy bleeding, the woman’s overall health status, and her future reproductive plans. It is crucial for women experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding to consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment option. By working closely with their doctor, women can ensure that their symptoms are managed effectively without compromising their overall health or future fertility goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

References

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