Heavy Periods

By Dr. Joseph Berenholz

Many women experience abnormally heavy periods that involve pain, discomfort, and inconvenience.  Some women feel their periods are normal when actually they are heavier than average. Heavy bleeding can cause fatigue, anemia, and limiting normal activities during menstruation. Women who do not seek solutions to heavy periods may endure these symptoms unnecessarily.

Conditions

Menorrhagia is an abnormally heavy and prolonged period that occurs at regular intervals. Possible causes of this condition can include abnormal blood clotting, issues with hormonal regulation of periods, or disorders of the lining of the uterus. Depending upon the cause, the heavy bleeding may be accompanied by a high degree of pain.

There are a variety of treatments that can help alleviate heavy menstruation. In the case when the issue causes other medical concerns, such as anemia, a doctor should diagnose and treat the issue. In cases during which patients feel discomfort, pain, or limit activities, treatment can alleviate frustration and inconvenience during menstruation. Dr. Berenholz has 20 years of experience guiding women through such choices, and he can provide a diagnosis as well as a sound course of treatment to patients.

Treatment

One viable course of treatment for women experiencing heavy bleeding is endometrial ablation. During this procedure, the uterine lining is destroyed. When this occurs, scarring helps prevent future uterine bleeding. A variety of methods can be used to complete this procedure, including laser, electricity, radiofrequency, heat, saline, and freezing.

Her Option is a specific method of ablating the uterine lining. During this procedure, the doctor uses ultrasound to guide a probe that destroys the uterine lining by way of freezing. After this procedure, patients experience quick recovery and return to regular daily activities. Advantages of this process include that the patient retains the uterus and natural hormones.

If you would like to discuss any symptoms you are experiencing, contact our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Berenholz soon. He will address all of your questions, and follow with any steps necessary to alleviate your medical concerns.