Irregular and Heavy Periods

Menstruation is a natural part of being a woman, but if your periods are abnormally heavy or irregular, the obstetrics and gynecology specialists at Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom can help. With innovative treatments at their office in Folsom, California, Timothy Phelan, MD, FACOG, Mandi O'Brien MSN, FNP-BC, and their expert team offer effective solutions to improve your menstrual health. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to visit with an experienced provider.

What are irregular and heavy periods?

Menstruation typically happens about once every 28 days, but you may have an irregular period if it occurs earlier than 21 or later than 35 days. 

Heavy bleeding occurs when you lose more than a one-third cup of blood during your menstrual cycle. Excessive bleeding that lasts for longer than seven days, needing to change your pad or tampon every two hours, or large blood clots are telltale signs of heavy periods.

Irregular and heavy periods don’t always have underlying causes, but it’s important to talk to your provider to rule any out.

Why do irregular and heavy periods happen?

Many factors can contribute to irregular or heavy periods, including:

• Uterine fibroids
• Intrauterine device (IUD)
• Miscarriage
• Endometriosis
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Polyps
• Certain medications
• Uterine cancer

After a thorough exam, the team can determine the underlying cause of your irregular or heavy periods and recommend the most effective treatment.

How are irregular and heavy periods diagnosed?

The Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom team takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing irregular and heavy periods. Along with completing a full medical history review and women’s health exam, the team may conduct tests such as:

• Bloodwork
• Ultrasound
• Pap smear
• Hysteroscopy (to see inside the cervix and uterus)
• Biopsy

Make sure to contact the team immediately if severe pain, fever, abnormal vaginal discharge, or unexplained weight loss accompanies your irregular and heavy periods. With quick response times, you can see a qualified provider at Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom right away.

What are the treatments for irregular and heavy periods?

Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom offers several cutting-edge treatments to address irregular and heavy periods. The team’s focus on effective, minimally invasive procedures helps you get back to your daily life as quickly as possible. Some of the treatments they may recommend include:

• Birth control pills
• Intrauterine device (IUD)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Nexplanon® birth control implant
• NovaSure® endometrial ablation
• DaVinci® minimally invasive robotic surgery
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Dilation and curettage (D&C)
• Hysterectomy

A combination approach is often best to relieve symptoms of irregular and heavy periods. The team works with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that effectively addresses your concerns and improves your condition quickly.

If you’re struggling with irregular or heavy periods, talk to the experts at Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom. Call or schedule an appointment online to learn more about your options.