Experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding? You're not alone—up to 1 in 5 premenopausal women face this challenging condition. This November, a dedicated campaign aims to raise awareness and break the silence around heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB).
Menstrual blood loss varies by age, hormones, stress, environment, and more. On average, women lose about 4 tablespoons of blood per period. HMB occurs when loss exceeds this, often reaching 80ml or more—equivalent to three-quarters of a tall glass per cycle. Primarily affecting women aged 35-55, HMB demands frequent changes of multiple sanitary products every 1-2 hours, leading to iron deficiency, severe disruption to daily life, social withdrawal, and increased sick leave.
Many women are alarmed by excessive flow, but key signs of HMB include:
While 50% of cases have no clear cause, common triggers include:
Rarely, HMB signals serious issues like cancer of the reproductive organs.
Shame and lack of awareness keep HMB hidden, yet it impacts 1 in 5 women in this age group—likely someone you know. Experts at hevigbloedloss.nl urge open conversations and prompt medical consultation to manage symptoms effectively.
If these signs resonate, see your doctor promptly. They may perform an internal exam to check for polyps or other issues. Treatments range from hormonal therapies for short-term relief to permanent options like hysterectomy. Minimally invasive procedures—such as MyoSure for fibroid removal, NovaSure endometrial ablation, or dilation and curettage—offer significant relief. Choices depend on factors like fertility wishes, discussed with your gynecologist.
Women aged 35-55 deserve empathy for HMB's toll. Share your experience with loved ones, colleagues, and employers to foster support. Don't delay—seek treatment to transform your quality of life. November's campaign month highlights events and resources at hevigbloedloss.nl.
