DiseaseInjuryNutritionPoison
Special TopicSurgerySymptomsTest
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
Y
OverviewTreatment

Menstrual periods - abnormal

Definition:
Profuse or extended menstrual bleeding.

Alternative Names:
Periods - heavy or prolonged; Menorrhagia

Considerations:

The menstrual cycle is not the same for every woman. Normal menstrual flow occurs about every 28 days, lasts about 4 days, and produces a total blood loss of 30 to 80 milliliters (2 tablespoons to about 1 cup). Periods may be regular, irregular, light, heavy, painful, pain-free, long, or short, and still be normal. Variation in the menstrual cycle is medically less significant than bleeding, pain, or discharge between periods.

Bleeding may be something to worry about for women over age 50 (postmenopausal). The risk of malignancy increases with age.

Make sure that bleeding is coming from the vagina and not from the rectum or in the urine. This can be accomplished by inserting a tampon into the vagina to confirm that the vagina is the source of the bleeding. A serious problem can best be detected by a health care provider.



Common Causes:
  • Anovulation (failure of ovaries to produce, mature, or release eggs)
  • Endometrial polyps
  • Endometrial hyperplasia and cancers
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Abnormal thyroid or pituitary function
  • Pregnancy complications (miscarriage or ectopic)


Review Date: 1/14/2002
Reviewed By: Peter Chen, M.D., Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com