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Treatment for menstrual bleeding should be indicated by the gynecologist, and the use of oral contraceptives, IUDs and supplementation of iron and folic acid may be recommended, depending on the cause. However, in the most severe cases, blood transfusion or surgery may be necessary to treat the cause.
Menstrual bleeding is a condition characterized by excessive blood loss for more than 7 days and which can happen due to hormonal changes, changes in the uterus and infections in the uterus or bladder, for example. It is important that the cause of menstrual bleeding is identified so that the appropriate treatment is indicated by the gynecologist. Learn about other causes of menstrual bleeding.
1. Remedies for menstrual bleeding
The remedies that the gynecologist can indicate for the control of menstrual bleeding can be:
- Oral contraceptives or IUDs - intrauterine device, to try to regulate menstruation and decrease blood flow. Contraceptives can be changed after 3 months of use if they do not decrease the menstrual flow;
- Iron supplements + folic acid to ensure the body's daily iron requirement, preventing or fighting anemia;
- Hemostatic agents, such as aminocaproic acid, which favor the clotting process, preventing excessive bleeding.
It is important for the woman to see her gynecologist regularly to see if treatment with drugs is being effective. Thus, during consultations, blood tests may be requested, especially the blood count, so that the concentration of red blood cells, platelets and hemoglobin can be assessed.
In addition, the doctor may order imaging tests, such as ultrasound, to identify the cause of menstrual bleeding.
2. Medical treatment
If the remedies are not enough to stop heavy menstruation, the gynecologist can indicate the curettage, intrauterine Foley tube, or the ligation or embolization of the uterine arteries, according to the cause of the hemorrhage.
However, if the cause is not identified and excessive and prolonged menstruation remains, it is important to redouble the care with food to prevent the development of anemia and, therefore, it is recommended to increase the consumption of iron-rich foods, such as meat, spinach and beans, for example.
3. Surgery
Surgery is usually indicated if changes in the uterus are found to be responsible for menstrual bleeding. Thus, surgery to remove the uterus can be indicated for women who are unable to stop menstrual bleeding even following all medical guidelines, and who do not wish to become pregnant, and for this reason this should be the last treatment option.
Learn more about uterus removal surgery.
4. Care with food
Food is essential in the treatment of menstrual bleeding, as it promotes a greater sense of well-being and prevents complications, including anemia, for example.
Thus, it is important that during treatment the person takes enough fluids during the day to not get dehydrated. Orange juice, pure, without sugar is particularly suitable and can be taken 3 to 4 times a day, because it contains minerals that can help keep blood pressure under control, preventing the feeling of dizziness or fainting.
In addition, it is recommended to increase the consumption of foods rich in iron, such as red meats, beans and beets, it is necessary to fight anemia that is already installed or prevent it from installing itself. Iron-containing foods should be consumed daily, if possible with every meal to prevent iron levels from getting too low in the blood. Know other iron-rich foods.
Signs of improvement and worsening
The signs of improvement in menstrual bleeding are a decrease in the amount of blood lost through the vagina, menstruation without clots and the absence or decrease in the severity of anemia. These signs of improvement can appear 1 to 3 months after starting treatment.
However, if the bleeding is not treated according to the gynecologist's guidance, signs and symptoms of worsening may appear, such as more intense bleeding, clots and worsening of anemia. In addition, the woman may become very pale, without strength and find it difficult to concentrate. When presenting these symptoms the doctor may order a blood test to check the amount of iron in the body, and to evaluate the possibility of hospitalization.