When is a period considered abnormal?
When it comes to menstruation, every woman is a little different. However, certain things describe a regular period.
For example, a normal menstrual cycle lasts 28 days, give or take seven days. Your period should last for less than eight days. Additionally, most women lose around eight teaspoons of blood.
You should talk to your OB/GYN if your period lasts longer than a week or if you have periods more frequently than every 21 days. Signs that you have abnormally heavy bleeding include:
- Having to change your tampon or pad more than once an hour for several consecutive hours
- Needing to use two types of feminine hygiene products at a time
- Passing blood clots larger than a quarter
- Bleeding through your clothing or your bedding
Additionally, while mild menstrual cramps are normal, your pain shouldn’t be so severe that it prevents you from going to school or work.
What causes abnormal periods?
Many factors contribute to irregular periods, including:
Lifestyle factors
Your diet and exercise habits can affect your menstrual cycle. For example, if you have an extremely restricted diet or are very physically active, you could have infrequent or absent periods. Additionally, stress or changes to your routine due to travel or career changes can disrupt your menstrual cycle.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a reproductive health issue that causes endometrial tissue to form outside of your uterus. It causes severe cramping and irregular but heavy periods.
Uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids are benign growths that develop in or on your uterine walls. They can cause infrequent but heavy periods as well as severe abdominal and pelvic pain.
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal issue that interferes with the way your egg cells mature and causes cysts to form on your ovaries. The hormonal problems that interfere with ovulation also cause irregular periods.
How is the cause of abnormal periods diagnosed?
The OB/GYNs at Signature Women’s Healthcare offer comprehensive exams and tests to identify the cause of your abnormal periods. In addition to a pelvic exam and Pap smear, your doctor could order blood tests, ultrasounds, and/or a hysteroscopy to examine your reproductive organs in more detail.
How are abnormal periods treated?
Treatment of abnormal periods depends on the condition causing them. For example, you could benefit from taking birth control pills to regulate your hormones and ovulation.
Your OB/GYN could suggest NovaSure® endometrial ablation or other minimally invasive procedures to address heavy periods or irregular bleeding between periods.
Call Signature Women’s Healthcare today or make an appointment online if you are having abnormal periods.
