Prolonged Menstrual Period: Causes and Concerns Explained

Menstrual period lasts for several days, exceeding the usual duration?

I had my menstrual period on August 29, which was light.
I didn't think much of it, but I was supposed to start again on September 2, and now it's September 14.
There has been a very minimal amount of flow, just enough to use a panty liner.
I've been quite worried...
I did eat some ice during that time; could that be the cause? However, I have eaten ice before without experiencing this kind of situation...
Could you please help me with this?

A-An, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/14

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
First, it is important to rule out the possibility of pregnancy.
If there has been no recent sexual activity, there is no need for concern; however, if there has been recent sexual activity, please take a pregnancy test.

2.
Secondly, irregular menstruation may be a possibility.
Various factors such as lack of sleep, stress, the use of traditional Chinese medicine, or hormonal medications can lead to irregular periods.
If irregular menstruation persists, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation and treatment.

3.
Other possibilities include inflammation, tumors, or injuries, which are less common but require medical examination for confirmation.

4.
Consuming small amounts of ice is unlikely to cause irregular menstruation; it is more plausible to consider the other aforementioned reasons.

Respectfully, Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/09/14

More Info

Prolonged menstrual periods can be concerning, and it's understandable that you're feeling anxious about your situation. Your experience of having a menstrual period that started on August 29 and has continued with very light flow until September 14 raises several questions regarding potential causes and whether you should seek medical attention.

First, it's important to understand that menstrual cycles can vary significantly among individuals and can be influenced by a variety of factors. A typical menstrual cycle lasts between 21 to 35 days, with bleeding lasting anywhere from 2 to 7 days. However, when periods become prolonged or irregular, it can be indicative of underlying issues.

Several factors can contribute to prolonged menstrual bleeding, including:
1. Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuations in hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can lead to changes in menstrual cycles. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders can disrupt hormonal balance and result in prolonged periods.

2. Uterine Conditions: Conditions such as fibroids, polyps, or endometriosis can cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. These conditions may also lead to additional symptoms like pelvic pain or discomfort.

3. Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Emotional stress, significant weight changes, excessive exercise, or changes in diet can impact menstrual cycles. While you mentioned consuming ice, it's unlikely that this alone would cause such a significant change in your menstrual pattern.

4. Medications: Certain medications, including hormonal contraceptives or anticoagulants, can affect menstrual bleeding patterns. If you are on any medications, it’s worth discussing this with your healthcare provider.

5. Infections or Medical Conditions: Infections of the reproductive organs or other medical conditions can also lead to changes in menstrual bleeding. If accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, unusual discharge, or severe pain, it is essential to seek medical attention.

Given that your period has extended beyond the typical duration and is accompanied by only a very light flow, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, blood tests to check hormone levels, and possibly imaging studies like an ultrasound to assess for any structural issues in the uterus.

In summary, while occasional changes in menstrual patterns can occur, prolonged bleeding warrants further investigation to rule out any serious underlying conditions. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. Seeking medical advice will provide you with clarity and peace of mind regarding your menstrual health.

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