Heavy Bleeding (Menorrhagia)
Heavy menstrual bleeding, or menorrhagia, is more than just a “heavy period.” It’s a common condition that can affect your daily life, lead to fatigue, and even cause chronic anemia if left untreated. At Care for Womens Medical Group, our OB/GYN specialists in Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Chino Hills, and Eastvale provide expert evaluation and treatment to help you regain control of your menstrual health.
What Is Considered Heavy Menstrual Bleeding?
Your period may be classified as “heavy” if you experience one or more of the following:
- Bleeding that lasts longer than seven days
- Needing to change a pad or tampon every 1–2 hours
- Passing large blood clots (larger than a quarter)
- Waking up at night to change protection
- Bleeding that soaks through clothing or bedding
- Symptoms of anemia such as fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath
If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s important to see an experienced OB/GYN in the Inland Empire who can determine what’s causing your heavy bleeding and recommend appropriate care.
Common Causes of Heavy Bleeding
Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding can result from several underlying conditions or hormonal imbalances.
Hormonal Causes:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Perimenopause or irregular ovulation
Structural Causes:
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometrial polyps
- Adenomyosis (thickened uterine lining)
- Endometriosis
Other Contributing Factors:
- Blood clotting disorders
- Certain medications, including blood thinners
- Use or recent removal of an intrauterine device (IUD)
- Pregnancy complications such as miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
Understanding the root cause allows your provider to develop a treatment plan that not only reduces bleeding but also protects your long-term reproductive health.
When to Seek Medical Care
You should schedule an appointment with Care for Womens Medical Group if you experience:
- Heavy bleeding month after month
- The need to change pads or tampons more often than every 1–2 hours
- Multiple or large clots, or frequent leakage despite protection
- Pain, fatigue, dizziness, or lightheadedness
- Bleeding that disrupts sleep, work, or daily activities
- Fertility concerns or plans for pregnancy
Persistent heavy bleeding is not something you should ignore. Early evaluation by a trusted OB/GYN in Upland, Chino Hills, Eastvale, or Rancho Cucamonga can help identify the cause and prevent complications.
Diagnosis and Testing
Our providers use a combination of medical history, physical exams, and imaging tools to diagnose the cause of menorrhagia. Diagnostic steps may include:
- Pelvic exam to assess for structural abnormalities
- Blood tests to check for anemia, thyroid issues, or clotting disorders
- Pelvic ultrasound to detect fibroids, polyps, or uterine changes
- Endometrial biopsy to evaluate the uterine lining
- Hysteroscopy for a closer view of the uterus, if indicated
These evaluations provide valuable insight into your reproductive health and guide us in designing the most effective treatment plan for your needs.
Treatment Options
Your treatment plan will depend on the cause of your heavy bleeding, your age, and your reproductive goals.
Nonsurgical Options:
- Hormonal birth control (pill, patch, ring, or IUD) to regulate or reduce bleeding
- Tranexamic acid or NSAIDs to decrease blood loss during periods
- Hormonal or thyroid therapy for underlying imbalances
- Iron supplements and nutrition support to prevent or treat anemia
Minimally Invasive Procedures:
- In-office fibroid or polyp removal
- Endometrial ablation to reduce or stop menstrual flow
- Uterine artery embolization to shrink fibroids
Surgical Treatments:
- Myomectomy to remove fibroids while preserving fertility
- Hysterectomy for severe or persistent cases where childbearing is complete
Our specialists in the Inland Empire will help you explore every option and find the most effective, least invasive solution possible.
Take Control of Your Menstrual Health
Heavy bleeding is common, but it’s not normal if it disrupts your life. The OB/GYN team at Care for Womens Medical Group provides advanced, compassionate care across Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Chino Hills, and Eastvale to help women find lasting relief.
Schedule an appointment at Care For Womens Medical Group today to discuss your symptoms and find a treatment plan tailored to your needs.