Submitted by Brittany King, APN, WHNP, Advanced Women’s Healthcare
Abnormal vaginal bleeding in women both during menstruation and in between is cause for a conversation with your women’s healthcare provider. Many women may feel that heavy bleeding isn’t serious, and they’ll just put up with it, but whether it is a sign of a more serious condition or simply a major disruption in your daily life, no one should have to just “put up with it” as there are many treatment options available. Following are some of the possible causes for abnormally heavy bleeding.
Fibroids: Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop on the muscle tissue of the uterus. They may form both in and around the uterus. Although most common in women between the ages of 30–40, they may form at any age. Fibroids can cause heavy and/or painful menstruation; however, they may also cause bleeding between periods.
Hormonal Imbalance: During the transition years of adolescence and perimenopause, a woman’s hormone levels may fluctuate rapidly. The result is often excessive bleeding during menstruation. Hormone treatment often provides relief in order to address the imbalance and reduce the bleeding.
Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition in which the type of tissue that forms the lining of the uterus is found outside the uterus. Endometriosis commonly occurs in women between the ages of 30–40. Heavy menstrual bleeding may be a symptom, along with others like chronic pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and potentially pain during urination or bowel movements depending on the location and severity of the endometriosis.
Adenomyosis: Adenomyosis occurs when endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. During menstruation, the tissue appears to function as normal by thickening and bleeding as a normal part of the cycle. However, the uterus may become enlarged, and painful symptoms may occur, including heavy bleeding during menstruation.
Polyps: Polyps are another form of growths that can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Varying types of polyps may form in the uterus and cervix. Symptoms may include heavy bleeding and/or signs of infection. Routine procedures exist for polyp removal.
Bleeding Disorders: Frequent, extremely heavy periods (when women may soak one tampon or pad every two hours) may be a symptom of a bleeding disorder or disease when accompanied by other bleeding disorder symptoms such as frequent nosebleeds, unexplainable or easy bruising, and/or excessive bleeding following dental work. One such disorder is von Willebrand disease, or VWD. Women should contact their doctor if experiencing extended or severe bleeding from any source.
You know your personal history experience with what may seem like normal vs. abnormal bleeding. It is essential that you speak with your healthcare provider regarding anything that causes you to be concerned. Together, you can partner and determine the best solution for you.
Brittany King is an advanced practice nurse specializing in women’s health. She works alongside Dele Ogunleye, M.D., to provide a full range of obstetric and gynecologic services. You may contact Brittany or Dr. Ogunleye at Advanced Women’s Healthcare at 309-808-3068, or www.awhcare.com. The office is located at 2111 East Oakland Avenue (next to the Jewel-Osco Plaza).
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