Heavy Periods
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Apple Hill Gynecology
Gynecology & Endometriosis Specialist located in York, PA
One of the most common health complaints women share with their doctor is heavy periods, and it’s estimated to affect more than 10 million women every year in the United States. At Apple Hill Gynecology, Marsha D. Bornt, MD, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of heavy periods. The team offers a number of options to reduce bleeding and improve your quality of life. To schedule an appointment, contact the office in York, Pennsylvania, by phone or through the online tool today.
Heavy Periods Q & A
What are heavy periods?
Heavy periods, also called menorrhagia, affect millions of women. Signs that you may be suffering from heavy periods include:
- Menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than seven days
- Needing to change your tampon or pad every hour for several hours in a row
- Passing quarter-sized blood clots
- Waking up in the middle of the night to change your tampon or pad
- Bleeding that limits your activities
- Feeling tired or short of breath
Your heavy periods may affect your quality of life or increase your risk of developing other health conditions, such as anemia.
What causes heavy periods?
You may develop heavy periods from any number of causes. Some of the most common ones include:
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
- Intrauterine device (IUD)
- Miscarriage
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Endometriosis
- Gynecological cancer
You may also develop heavy periods as a side effect of certain medications, such as aspirin. If you’re experiencing heavier than normal periods, contact Apple Hill Gynecology to schedule a consultation.
What can I expect during a heavy period consultation?
You can expect a comprehensive evaluation when you come in to see the women’s health experts at Apple Hill Gynecology for management of your heavy periods. During your exam, your provider asks detailed questions about your menstrual cycle, symptoms, gynecological history, and medical history. Then she conducts a physical and pelvic exam.
To better understand the underlying cause of your heavy periods, the team may request diagnostic tests such as blood work, an ultrasound, or an MRI.
How are heavy periods treated?
The team at Apple Hill Gynecology offers two treatment options for heavy periods: hormonal cycle control and endometrial ablation.
Hormonal cycle control
Hormonal cycle control includes various hormonal medications aimed at improving hormone balance to reduce your menstrual blood loss. The team may prescribe oral contraceptives, oral progesterone, or hormonal IUDs.
Endometrial ablation
Endometrial ablation is a gynecological procedure for the treatment of heavy periods. The team only recommends endometrial ablation if you have no future pregnancy plans.
During the minimally invasive procedure, your provider uses a special tool inserted through your vagina to your uterus to ablate (destroy) the uterine lining to reduce menstrual bleeding.
For expert care of your heavy periods from an experienced and skilled team of experts, call Apple Hill Gynecology or request an appointment online today.
