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Healing Acupuncture Benefits and Chinese Medicine
November 30, 2023![](https://pcfacupuncture.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/period-pain-e1708256662755-150x150.png)
Sick of painful period cramps? Discover 3 treament options
February 24, 2024Heavy periods, (Menorrhagia or abnormal uterine bleeding), can be a challenging experience for many women. In this blog, we’ll delve into what they are, what is considered normal, and available treatments.
Menorrhagia
What is ‘normal’?
Normal menstrual bleeding ranges from 30 to 80 millilitres or 1/3 of a cup, over approximately 5-7 days. Mensturation should occur at the proper time in the cycle (between day 28 to day 32) and no more than 8 days of bleeding.
Signs of heavy menstruation
Excessive bleeding
- Heavy menstruation involve bleeding that exceeds the normal range (more than 80mls or 1/3 of a cup)
- Flooding your pad or tampon (especially the largest sizes)
- Needing to change your pad or tampon every two hours or less, or overnight
- Blood clots that are larger than a 50-cent piece.
- Interrupting your daily activities, causing stress or anxiety
Other symptoms
- Feeling tired, exhausted, or dizzy
- Looking pale
- Having low iron levels
- Cramping and pain in your lower abdomen or back
- Worriyng that bleeding will soak through your clothes
Causes of heavy uterine bleeding
Understanding the potential causes of heavy uterine bleeding is essential for effective management.
Some common factors include:
- In over 50% of women, a greater than usual growth in the uterus lining
- Complications of a pregnancy
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
- Endometriosis
- Endometrial polyps
- Endometrial cancer
- Adenomyosis (endometrium grown inside the muscle of the uterus)
- Fibroids (non-cancerous growth within the uterus wall)
- IUD (Intrauterine device)
Managing heavy menstruation
Consult with a healthcare professional
If you suspect you have heavy uterine bleeding, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional, such as your doctor (GP). They may refer you for tests or to see a gynaecologist.
Biomedical
- Medications such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories) and tranexamic acid
- Contraception, including the contraceptive pill, progestin-only pill, IUD
- Surgery
Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine may help reduce the symptoms of heavy periods, some research can be found by a case report and a population study.