Have irregular but heavy bleeding

Resolved question:

Ever since I started my periods they have always been irregular. First they were every 2 months and then every 3 months. For the past few years they would come and go. For a few months I would have my period every week, and then it would suddenly stop for a few months. I have noticed over the past 2 years that my periods are getting heavier. Last year my Doctor prescribed me tablets for heavy blood loss. But I ended up in hospital as I had an allergic reaction to them. This week it has been the heaviest it has ever been. I have a few stomach cramps and I am changing my pad more and more. Also I am feeling more tired. I don't really know what to do.

Submitted: 4 Days
Category: Community

Expert:  Dr. John Monheit replied 4 Days.

I understand your anxiety. Irregular periods can occur due to various reasons most commonly due to emotional stress. It can also be triggered by one of these factors such as:

a) Emotional stresses can also irregular periods.

b) Excessive weight loss or gain

c) Eating disorders like Bulimia

d) Travelling

e) Certain medications like birth control pills

f) Increased exercises.

Menstrual cycle is usually 28-day cycle. It is divided into four phases:

a) Menses phase: This usually occurs after the shedding of the uterine lining and results in next period. It generally last for 1-5 days. However it is considered normal even if women have 2-3 days of menstruation.

b) Follicular phase: Here due to estrogen levels, there is again thickening of the uterine wall. This lasts from 6-14 days.

c) Ovulation phase: This occurs on 14 th day, where there is an increase of the Luteinizing hormone resulting in release of the egg (ova)

d) Luteal phase: Here this occurs from 15-28 day cycle. The progesterone is released which prepares for pregnancy and fertilization occurs. The tiredness you may be feeling is due to loss of a lot of blood. I would suggest you to consult your obg – gyn doctor for further assessment. Thank you.

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