What Is Menorrhagia (Heavy Period)?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Menorrhagia, also known as heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), is characterized by excessive blood loss during menstruation. It is typically defined as menstrual blood loss exceeding 80 mL per cycle or bleeding that lasts more than seven days1 2 3. This condition can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, causing discomfort, anxiety, and limitations in daily activities4.

Prevalence and Impact

Menorrhagia is a common condition affecting approximately 30% of women of reproductive age10. It accounts for more than 10% of outpatient referrals to gynecology consultants6. Women with menorrhagia often seek medical attention due to the negative impact on their physical, social, and psychological well-being4 5.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of menorrhagia can be challenging as it often relies on subjective reports of heavy menstrual bleeding. Objective methods such as the alkaline haematin method and the Pictorial Blood Loss Assessment Chart (PBAC) are used to quantify menstrual blood loss. The PBAC is a simple and effective tool that correlates well with objective measurements and is commonly used in clinical settings3.

Causes

Menorrhagia can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polyps, adenomyosis, and bleeding disorders. In some cases, the cause may be idiopathic, meaning no specific underlying condition is identified6 9.

Quality of Life

Heavy menstrual bleeding can severely affect a woman’s quality of life. Women with menorrhagia often report limitations in physical activities, social interactions, and overall daily functioning. The condition can also lead to anemia due to significant blood loss, further exacerbating fatigue and weakness4 10.

Conclusion

Menorrhagia is a prevalent condition that can have a profound impact on women’s lives. Accurate diagnosis and understanding of the underlying causes are essential for managing this condition effectively. While various treatments are available, the focus should be on improving the quality of life for women suffering from heavy menstrual bleeding.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

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