How Can I Manage a Heavy Period?

Heavy menstrual bleeding can significantly affect your day-to-day life, impacting everything from work and exercise routines to overall well-being. If you’ve tried medication without success, you’re not alone. Many women find themselves exploring alternative treatment options that can help manage heavy periods more effectively.

In this article, we’ll dive into what constitutes a heavy period, discuss the various causes, and review both natural and medical treatment options. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision and help you understand how McKeown Medical’s expertise can guide you toward a solution that suits your unique needs.

A heavy period, also known as menorrhagia, is generally defined as menstrual bleeding that is excessive in volume, duration, or frequency. Women experiencing heavy periods might notice that they need to change sanitary products more frequently than usual or that the bleeding interferes with daily activities. Other signs can include fatigue, shortness of breath, and even dizziness, all of which can seriously disrupt your quality of life.

While menstrual bleeding is a natural part of life, heavy periods can be a sign of underlying issues. It’s important to track your symptoms and consult with a doctor if your menstrual cycle begins to affect your physical and emotional well-being.

Several factors can contribute to heavy menstrual bleeding. In some cases, the cause is clear. While in others, it remains unknown.

Here are some common causes:

• Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone can lead to a thicker uterine lining, which results in heavier bleeding when shed.
• Uterine Fibroids or Polyps: These benign growths in the uterus can lead to heavier or prolonged periods.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, or thyroid disorders can also contribute to heavy bleeding.
• Physical Abnormalities: Structural issues within the uterus sometimes cause an irregular shedding of the uterine lining.
• Unknown Causes: In some cases, no identifiable cause is found despite thorough investigation.

Understanding the root of your heavy period is essential in determining the most effective treatment. At McKeown Medical, our consultant gynaecologist will work with you to pinpoint potential causes and develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific situation. The first step is to come in for a consultation. As part of the initial consultation and assessment, we will undertake an ultrasound scan of your uterus to look at the lining of your womb and check for any abnormalities.

The first line of treatment for heavy periods is usually the contraceptive pill prescribed by your GP. If medication hasn’t been effective in managing your heavy periods, there are several other treatment options available. These range from non-invasive natural treatments to minimally invasive medical procedures.

Lifestyle and Natural Approaches

For some women, adjustments in lifestyle—such as stress management, dietary changes, and regular exercise—can help regulate hormonal balance and reduce the severity of heavy periods. However, if you’ve found that these methods aren’t enough, it might be time to explore more direct medical interventions.

Medical Procedures to Consider

Medical procedures can provide significant relief for those who have not seen improvement with traditional medication. Here are three treatment options offered at McKeown Medical that might be right for you:

The Mirena Coil

The Mirena coil is an intrauterine device (IUD) that not only acts as a contraceptive but also significantly reduces menstrual bleeding. It releases a small amount of hormone directly into the uterus, which helps thin the lining and reduce blood loss. One of the key advantages of the Mirena coil is its longevity—once inserted, it can remain effective for up to seven years, making it a long-term solution for managing heavy periods. For many women, this option provides a convenient, low-maintenance way to reduce menstrual flow while also offering contraception.

Novasure® Endometrial Ablation

Novasure® is a non-incisional, minimally invasive procedure designed to treat heavy menstrual bleeding. It is ideal for patients for whom hormonal treatments have not worked or for patients who simply do not want to take hormones. During this procedure, the inner lining of the uterus is ablated (or destroyed), which reduces or stops menstrual flow. One of the major benefits of Novasure® is that it is performed without the need for incisions, which means there are no scars. It is performed under local anaesthetic as an outpatient, meaning most patients get back to normal within a day or two. The procedure is relatively quick, has a high success rate, with 90% of patients being happy, and allows many women to resume their normal activities shortly after treatment. This makes it an attractive option for those looking for effective relief with minimal downtime. It also prevents the need to have a hysterectomy, which gives you symptom control whilst preserving the anatomy of your pelvic floor.

MyoSure® Procedure

The MyoSure® procedure is another minimally invasive option that specifically targets heavy bleeding caused by uterine polyps and fibroids. Using a specialised device, the procedure removes abnormal tissue from the uterus, thereby reducing bleeding and improving symptoms. MyoSure® is especially beneficial for women who have not responded well to other treatments and have been identified as having either a fibroid or polyp on ultrasound scan. It offers a targeted approach, often preserving the overall structure and function of the uterus, which can be an important consideration for those who might wish to retain fertility.

Deciding on the best treatment for heavy periods is a highly personal process. The right choice depends on various factors, including the severity of your symptoms, your overall health, and your future plans regarding fertility. At McKeown Medical, our team of experts is dedicated to working with you to identify the most appropriate treatment option based on your unique needs.

During your consultation, we’ll review your medical history, perform any necessary examinations, and discuss your lifestyle and treatment goals. This personalised approach ensures that you are fully informed about your options and can make a decision that aligns with your comfort level and expectations.

If you experience symptoms such as soaking through sanitary products frequently, feeling unusually fatigued, or suffering from shortness of breath during your period, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional.

Early intervention can help prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

When it comes to managing heavy periods, the expertise of your healthcare provider is paramount. At McKeown Medical, our service is led by Dr Iain Martin. Dr Iain is a consultant gynaecologist specialising in minimally invasive gynaecological procedures. He has been a pioneer of the concept of ambulatory gynaecology in Scotland – allowing women to access healthcare procedures with more convenience and ease. He offers a full range of treatments—from the Mirena coil to advanced procedures like Novasure® endometrial ablation and the MyoSure® procedure—ensuring you receive the best care possible. Our goal is to help you regain control over your menstrual health so you can enjoy a more comfortable, active lifestyle.

If you’re ready to explore the medical procedures that can help solve your heavy periods, discover more about our treatments here. Our team is committed to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring you feel confident and informed about your treatment plan.

Managing heavy periods doesn’t have to be an ongoing battle. With the right treatment option, you can significantly reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Remember, the journey to managing heavy periods is personal, and the best outcomes are achieved when you follow the advice of experts who understand your unique situation. At McKeown Medical, we are here to support you every step of the way. Our comprehensive range of treatment options, combined with a caring, professional approach, means you can trust us to help you find the solution that best suits your lifestyle and health needs.

Take the first step toward a more manageable and comfortable menstrual cycle by scheduling a consultation with our experts today. With McKeown Medical, relief is within reach—let us help you regain control and live your life without the burden of heavy periods.