Menstruation, excess

Christopher Hobbs:

“When the menstrual flow is excessive and very light-colored, adrenal insufficiency should be suspected. When excessive and bright red or dark red, a hormonal imbalance, liver imbalance, or heat in the pelvic area can be assumed as a starting point.”

Etiologic and Other Factors:

1. Hormonal Imbalances: Common during puberty or perimenopause; leads to irregular or heavy cycles.
2. Uterine Conditions: Fibroids, polyps, or adenomyosis can increase menstrual flow.
3. Bleeding Disorders: Conditions like von Willebrand disease or platelet disorders.
4. Medications: Blood thinners, hormonal contraceptives, or certain supplements.
5. Endocrine Disorders: Thyroid dysfunction can disrupt menstrual cycles.
6. Infections or Inflammation: Pelvic inflammatory disease or endometritis.
7. Pregnancy Complications: Miscarriages or ectopic pregnancies may present as heavy bleeding.
8. Cancer: Uterine or cervical cancer, though rarer, should be ruled out if bleeding persists.

When to Seek Professional Help:

• Severe Symptoms: Soaking through pads/tampons hourly for several consecutive hours.
• Prolonged Bleeding: Periods lasting more than 7 days.
• Clots: Passing large blood clots (larger than a quarter).
• Accompanying Symptoms: Dizziness, fainting, fatigue, or pallor (may indicate anemia).
• Irregularity: Sudden changes in cycle length, frequency, or intensity.
• Pain: Severe pelvic pain unrelated to cramps.
• Reproductive Health: If heavy bleeding is associated with infertility concerns or recurrent miscarriages.