Heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, can have several causes. It's important for your girlfriend to see a doctor to determine the underlying reason. Two common causes are uterine fibroids and polyps.
Understanding Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Heavy bleeding during menstruation can be distressing and disruptive. What constitutes "heavy" can be subjective, but generally, it involves soaking through more than one sanitary pad or tampon per hour for several consecutive hours, or experiencing prolonged bleeding (longer than 7 days).
Potential Causes:
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Uterine Fibroids: These are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavier-than-normal menstrual bleeding or prolonged bleeding. [Source: August 30, 2023 - Information provided mentions uterine fibroids as a cause of heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.]
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Polyps: These are small growths on the uterine lining that can similarly lead to heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, and sometimes bleeding between periods. [Source: August 30, 2023 - Information provided mentions polyps as a cause of heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding and bleeding between periods.]
Other potential causes, not mentioned in the provided source, include hormonal imbalances, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions.
Seeking Professional Help
It is crucial that your girlfriend consults a healthcare professional, such as a gynecologist, to determine the exact cause of her heavy bleeding. They can perform a physical examination and order tests to reach an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment. Delaying medical attention can lead to complications. Treatment options may vary depending on the underlying cause, and can include medication, surgery, or other interventions.
