Menorrhagia

Before being treated for menorrhagia, one of the following diagnostic tests may be recommended:

• Blood tests — a blood sample may determine whether anemia, thyroid or blood-clotting disorders are present.
• Endometrial biopsy — the doctor collects a tissue sample from the endometrium for testing
• Ultrasound — sound imaging of the ovaries, uterus and pelvis
• Pap test — testing cervical cells for a range of issues that contribute to heavy bleeding
• Hysteroscopy — a lighted instrument that is inserted vaginally to allow the doctor to inspect the inside of the uterus
• Sonohysterography — an ultrasound that also uses a fluid to create an image of the uterine lining

Once diagnosed, medications are usually the first treatment prescribed.

These may include anti-inflammatory drugs, medicines that reduce menstrual blood loss, hormone therapy as well as oral contraceptives which have been found to help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce their intensity. When medications fail to help manage menorrhagia, your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure to correct the cause of your condition. Procedures that treat menorrhagia include:

• Dilation and curettage (D&C) — scraping or suctioning the uterine tissues to reduce bleeding
• Endometrial ablation — the surgical destruction of the endometrial tissue using focused ultrasound, laser, heat or radiofrequency
• Myomectomy — the surgical removal of uterine fibroids
• Resection of the endometrium — the surgeon removes the endometrial tissue using an electrosurgical wire loop
• Hysterectomy — surgery to remove the uterus and cervix