|
Do I have excessive menstrual bleeding?
If you suffer from excessive menstrual bleeding, you're not alone. About 1 in 5 women have unusually heavy bleeding. You may be among them if you:
Have periods that typically last seven days or more
Have unmanageable bleeding or clotting
Frequently need to change pads or tampons
Bleed so heavily that you sometimes don't want to leave home
If you've experienced any of these symptoms, you may have a condition known as excessive menstrual bleeding, medically called menorrhagia, a treatable condition that affects many women. There are options.
If you've experienced any of these symptoms, you may have a condition known as excessive
menstrual bleeding, medically called menorrhagia, a treatable condition that affects many women. There are options.
What is Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding (DUB)?
DUB is a common condition that affects approximately 1 out of 5 (22%) healthy, menstruating women. More than 10 million American women have this condition. It occurs because of a hormonal imbalance, and is distinct from other types of excessive menstrual bleeding because it is unrelated to fibroids, infection or disease. DUB commonly occurs in adolescents during the years following the onset of menstruation and results from a hormonal imbalance. It also occurs in women who are approaching menopause. DUB accounts for 20 percent of the 600,000 hysterectomies performed annually in the U.S.
Taking Care of You
No matter what your age - and even if you're in perfect health - you should have a pelvic exam at least once a year so that any potential problems can be detected and treated early. Be sure to tell your doctor about any changes in your menstrual cycle.
|
