As women enter their 50s and approach menopause, changes in their menstrual cycle are expected. However, heavy bleeding during this stage can be concerning and may raise questions about its normalcy. Here, a gynaecologist in South Kolkata will shed light on the topic of heavy bleeding after 50 and provide insights into its causes, implications, and when to seek medical attention.
Understanding Menopause:
Menopause refers to a biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It occurs between 45 and 55 years of age, with the average age being 51 in most women. During menopause, hormonal fluctuations cause changes in the menstrual cycle, eventually leading to the end of menstruation.
Heavy Bleeding and Menopause:
While it is common for women to experience changes in their menstrual flow as they approach menopause, heavy bleeding may still occur and might indicate an underlying condition.
Causes of Heavy Bleeding:
Several factors can contribute to heavy bleeding after 50, including:
- Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels during perimenopause can disrupt the normal shedding of the uterine lining, leading to irregular and heavy bleeding.
- Uterine Fibroids: These are non-cancerous growths in the uterus. They sometimes cause heavy periods and prolonged bleeding.
- Adenomyosis: Adenomyosis occurs when the endometrial tissue lining the uterus grows into the uterine muscle. This causes heavy and painful menstruation.
- Endometrial Hyperplasia: According to the best gynaecologist in South Kolkata, thickening of the uterine lining due to hormonal imbalances can result in a heavy menstruation cycle.
- Polyps: Uterine or cervical polyps can cause heavy bleeding, especially after sexual intercourse or physical activity.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
While some degree of irregular bleeding is expected during the menopausal transition, you can consult with best gynaecologist in South Kolkata if you experience the following:
- Heavy bleeding that soaks through sanitary protection within an hour or less.
- Passing blood clots larger than a coin.
- Experiencing frequent episodes of prolonged bleeding (more than seven days).
- Experiencing symptoms of anemia such as fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath.
- Bleeding between menstrual cycles or after intercourse.
Consulting a Gynecologist:
In case you are experiencing heavy bleeding after 50, you can reach out to a gynaecologist in a reputed private hospital in South Kolkata for an evaluation. They will review your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and may recommend additional diagnostic tests such as ultrasound, hysteroscopy, or endometrial biopsy to determine the underlying cause of the heavy bleeding and plan a suitable line of treatment.