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Menstrual Periods - Heavy, Prolonged, or Irregular
Alternate Names : Abnormal Menstruation, Irregular Menstrual Periods, Menorrhagia, Menstrual Periods - Abnormal, Menstruation - Irregular, Periods - Heavy, Prolonged, or Irregular
Definition
Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods refer to profuse or extended menstrual bleeding. Irregular menstrual periods are those that occur at unusual or unexpected times. Collectively or individually, these may be called abnormal menstrual bleeding.
Pictures & Images
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Overview & Considerations
The menstrual cycle is not the same for every woman. On average, menstrual flow occurs every 28 days and lasts about 4 days. However, there is wide variation in timing and duration that is still considered normal, especially if your periods began within the last two years.
If you soak through a sanitary pad or tampon every hour for 6 consecutive hours, this is considered a very heavy period. A prolonged period is one that lasts longer than 7 days. Irregular periods are those that happen more often than every 21 days or less often than every 35 days.
These types of variations may be normal and are considered medically less concerning than bleeding, pain, or discharge between periods.
Bleeding may be something to worry about if you are over age 50, especially if you have already gone through menopause. The risk of cancer increases with age.
Often times, if you are bleeding from the rectum or in your urine, you think it is coming from the vagina. To know for certain, insert a tampon into the vagina to confirm that that is the source of your bleeding.
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Abnormal Menstrual Periods: Overview & Considerations
• Abnormal Menstrual Periods: Common Causes
• Abnormal Menstrual Periods: Home Care & Treatment
• Call your Health Care Provider if
• What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Blood Clots
• Menopause
• Tumor
• Uterine Fibroids
Tests & Exams
• Endometrial Biopsy
• Pap Smear
Surgery & Procedures
• Hysterectomy
Other Topics
• Menstruation - Painful
• Vagina
Review Date : 10/13/2003
Reviewed By : Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Boston, Ma., and Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Peter Chen, M.D., Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (1/14/2002).
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