Reviewed by Dr Rishma Dhillon Pai, gynecologist and obstetrician from Mumbai.
While they perform an important biological function, you can hardly be faulted for doubting if your periods are normal. An abnormally heavy flow is common in many women who stoically put on a brave face to bear them month after month.
While the “normal” average amount of menstrual flow has been worked out to about 30 ml (or two tablespoons), this varies widely. A better way to define abnormal flow would be to check if it interferes with your ability to perform daily routines or prevents you from going to work.
Fibroids and polyps in the uterus are among the common causes of abnormal or heavy uterine bleeding. Your doctor may suggest tests such as ultrasound, saline infusion sonography and hysteroscopy to ascertain the exact cause of bleeding in your case.
FibroidsFibroids are benign tumors that grow in the muscular layer of the uterus. These are not generally cancerous. There are many options for the treatment of fibroids. They include:
PolypsPolyps are growths in the endometrial tissue that forms the inner lining of the uterus. They are quite small and have a stalk attaching them to the tissue from which they grow. They are not generally cancerous.
Polyps can be easily treated using hysteroscopy. There are two ways. One involves a simple procedure carried out in the doctor’s clinic where a small scissor is used to remove the growth. The other method uses anesthesia and is performed in an operation theatre. It uses laser or electrical currents to remove the polyps.
Remember, fibroids and polyps are just two reasons for a heavy flow. But abnormal uterine bleeding can also result from conditions such as polycystic ovary disease (PCOD), hormonal disorders or even cancer. It is important that you consult your doctor to find out the cause of your condition and suggest treatment.
Read more:
Abnormal menstrual bleeding -- Part I
Abnormal vaginal bleeding - Part III
Coping with endometriosisTags: Periods, Uterine bleeding 
