What should I do if I have heavy periods?

If you are concerned that you are having heavy periods, talk to your doctor. Heavy periods can cause iron loss and lead to anemia (a low red blood-cell count). If your periods are heavy, they should not be ignored. If you have heavy periods, your doctor may want to run some tests to find the cause. These tests may include:

• A pelvic exam: Your doctor is likely to use a speculum to visualize your cervix and vagina, and feel your uterus to assure it is of normal size.
• Pap test: Your doctor will remove some cells from the opening of your cervix. These cells will then be looked at under a microscope.
• Ultrasound: A picture of the inside of your uterus made by sound waves.
• Saline-infused sonogram: Typically, your doctor places sterile water inside your uterus to take a closer look at the lining of the uterus on ultrasound.
• Endometrial biopsy: Your doctor will take a small piece of tissue from the lining of your uterus.
• Hysteroscopy: An interior picture of your uterus taken by camera inserted through your cervix.
• Blood work: Labs such as tests for anemia and thyroid disorders which can aid the doctor in a management plan.

To learn more about treatment options, you can download a free brochure and a doctor discussion guide here.

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