Menorrhagia

What is Menorrhagia?

Do you find that every monthly cycle you’re spending more money on tampons and pads than on gas? If so, you may be suffering from a condition called menorrhagia, which is the medical term for excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding – and for periods that are both heavy and prolonged. Although each woman is different when it comes to their menstrual cycle, normal menstrual flow should occur every 21 to 35 days, and last 4-5 days, producing a total blood loss that is equivalent to 2-3 tablespoons.

If you’re not exactly sure if you have menorrhagia, consider whether or not you have the following symptoms:

  • Menstrual flow that soaks through one or more sanitary pads or tampons every hour for several consecutive hours
  • The need to use double sanitary protection to control your menstrual flow
  • The need to change sanitary protection during the night
  • Menstrual periods lasting longer than seven days
  • Menstrual flow that includes large blood clots
  • Heavy menstrual flow that interferes with your regular lifestyle
  • Constant pain in your lower abdomen during menstrual periods
  • Tiredness, fatigue or shortness of breath (symptoms of anemia)

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This information is not intended to substitute the recommendations of your healthcare providers. Women’s Health Foundation disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.