There are many causes for heavy menstrual periods. Hormonal imbalances are one of the most frequent causes. It might be caused by a pathological process in the body, but birth control pills might also cause it. Uterine tumors (uterine fibroid tumors) are frequently a cause for heavy menstrual bleeding, too.
The treatment includes both surgical and non-surgical methods. Once menopause occurs, uterine fibroids tend to shrink due to their estrogen-dependence.
Cervical and endometrial polyps are benign tumors originating from the vaginal mucosa or from the inner lining of the uterus called the endometrium. Certain cancers might cause the heavy menstrual bleeding, too.
It is possible that other causes than tumors might be detected. Pelvic inflammatory disease might affect the tissue of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. If the uterus is affected, then the menstrual bleeding might be heavy. In the end, blood coagulation disorders might prolong the time needed for the bleeding to stop thus causing it to be longer and heavier.
As you can see, there are a variety of causes for heavy menstrual bleeding. Therefore, visiting your gynecologist is recommended. A set of tests (physical examination, hormonal laboratory tests, ultrasound scan or other visualizing methods) might be needed to detect the exact cause for the heavy menstrual bleeding. The therapy would depend upon the detected cause.
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