Prolonged Menstrual Periods: When to Seek Medical Advice

The duration of the menstrual period has suddenly increased, and it feels like menstruation is still ongoing?

Hello, doctor.
My menstrual period has usually lasted for a normal 7 days, and by the 5th or 6th day, it would start to turn into a small amount of brownish color, similar to oxidized blood, with the flow reducing to the point where I only need a panty liner.
However, on October 5th, I had my first sexual intercourse, and then my period started on October 15th, which was relatively heavy.
Now, on October 21st, it is already the seventh day, but I am still experiencing bright red menstrual bleeding with a moderate flow.
Since my period has come, I should not be pregnant, but because the duration and blood flow have suddenly changed from my usual pattern, I would like to ask the doctor if I should observe this situation until the 10th day, and if the bleeding continues, should I seek medical attention? Or does the doctor have any insights on this situation? Thank you for your response!

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/21

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the reasons for heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding in women may include hormonal imbalances, emotional factors, diet, age, and more.
However, it is crucial to rule out conditions such as uterine tumors, endometrial hyperplasia, cervical lesions, and vaginal lesions.
If the bleeding persists, it is advisable to consult a physician for further evaluation.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2023/10/21

More Info

Prolonged menstrual periods, or menorrhagia, can be concerning, especially when there are changes in the pattern of bleeding. Based on your description, it seems that your menstrual cycle has changed significantly after your recent sexual activity, and you are experiencing a longer duration of bleeding than usual.
Typically, a menstrual period lasts between 3 to 7 days, and it is common for the flow to taper off towards the end, often changing to a lighter, brownish discharge. However, if you find that your period is extending beyond this typical duration, it is important to consider several factors.

Firstly, the occurrence of a longer menstrual period can be influenced by various factors, including hormonal changes, stress, changes in weight, or even the onset of conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or fibroids. Given that you had your first sexual encounter shortly before the onset of this menstrual cycle, it is understandable to be concerned about any potential implications. However, the presence of menstrual bleeding generally indicates that you are not pregnant, especially if you have had a normal menstrual cycle prior to this.

In your case, since you are currently on day seven of your period with a moderate flow of bright red blood, it would be prudent to monitor the situation closely. If the bleeding continues beyond ten days, or if you experience any additional symptoms such as severe pain, dizziness, or an unusually heavy flow (soaking through a pad or tampon every hour), it would be advisable to seek medical attention sooner rather than later.

When you do consult with a healthcare provider, they may perform a physical examination and possibly order blood tests or imaging studies to determine the cause of the prolonged bleeding. They will look for signs of hormonal imbalances, structural abnormalities in the uterus, or other underlying conditions that may require treatment.

In summary, while it is not uncommon for menstrual cycles to vary occasionally, a significant change in your cycle warrants attention. If your period persists beyond ten days or if you experience concerning symptoms, please do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional. Early intervention can help address any potential issues and provide peace of mind. Remember, your health is paramount, and it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your menstrual cycle.

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