Ask the doctor: Heavy bleeding, fibroids, and polyps
Q.I am 53. I've had fibroids for some time but have experienced heavy menstrual bleeding lately. A recent ultrasound showed fibroids and polyps. What are my options?
A. As you know, you're almost certainly in perimenopause, the four to eight years leading up to menopause and the complete cessation of menstruation. Every woman's script for the transition to menopause is a little bit different, but it's very common for the menstrual cycle to be irregular and the amount of blood flow to vary. Erratic ovulation — the release of eggs from the ovaries — may result in hormonal changes that cause the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) to become thicker than usual, so when it sloughs off, the menstrual bleeding is heavier and more prolonged than women are used to.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Source matters. Subscribe to HarvardHealthOnline+ FREE for 30 days for unlimited access to the site – where all content is reviewed by an HMS physician or faculty expert.
With HHO+ you get these exclusive benefits:
- Unlimited access to all Harvard Health Online content
- 4 expertly curated newsletters delivered monthly
- Customized website experience aligned to your health goals
- In-depth health guides on topics like sleep, exercise, and more
- Interactive features like videos and quizzes
- Members-only access to exclusive articles and resources
SPECIAL OFFER! UNLOCK EXPERT ACCESS for 30 days FREE!
Already a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
