Why is period lasting longer

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that is similar to the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of the uterus. This tissue can swell and bleed in response to hormones, just as the uterine lining does during a period. Endometriosis lesions cannot exit the body, however, so they may result in pain and other complications, such as adhesions and cysts. Fibroids are muscular, usually benign tumors that form on the wall of the uterus. Polyps are red growths on the lining of the uterus.

Pregnancy loss, or miscarriage , often causes bleeding or spotting. This bleeding can be light or heavy and may last anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. If a miscarriage is responsible for the bleeding, it is best to speak to a doctor to ensure there are no complications.

Some women experience spotting or light bleeding in early pregnancy. Bleeding may occur with or without other signs of pregnancy, such as nausea. Abnormal bleeding and pelvic pain during pregnancy may be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy , which can cause serious complications.

A doctor can detect both regular and ectopic pregnancies using an ultrasound and blood test. Anyone who thinks they may be pregnant can also take a pregnancy test at home. Though uncommon, it is possible that someone experiencing a prolonged period may have an underlying blood disorder. Blood disorders can cause heavy bleeding and periods that last for longer than 7 days. Other symptoms of a blood disorder include:.

This stage is called perimenopause. During perimenopause, periods can be less or more frequent, as well as shorter or longer than usual. According to the National Cancer Institute , doctors will likely diagnose over 13, new cases of cervical cancer in Cervical cancer can cause abnormal bleeding, including between periods and after sexual activity.

It can also cause periods that are longer and heavier than usual. The human papillomavirus HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer. HPV is very common and many people have it without knowing it, or without having any symptoms. The birth control pill tends to produce a regular period that occurs every month and lasts for three to five days. A hormonal IUD usually results in a lighter period less bleeding or no period at all. Most women experience spotting for the first few months after getting the IUD.

Periods can become longer and more irregular as women approach menopause. Learn more about vaccine availability. Advertising Policy.

You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter. Related Articles. You may find that the bleeding affects your activities or your sleep. Read on to learn more about long periods, including possible causes and what you can do to manage this symptom.

Changes to your hormones or ovulation may cause a long period. You may notice hormonal changes when you first get your period during puberty or in perimenopause. You may also experience a hormonal imbalance from different health conditions, such as thyroid disorders or polycystic ovary syndrome. While not actually a period, extended vaginal bleeding may be a sign of an unsafe or nonviable pregnancy, such as an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage.

You may also have extended bleeding in pregnancy if you have a condition like placenta previa. Fibroids occur when muscle tissue begins to grown in the wall of the uterus. Polyps are also the result of irregular tissue growth in the uterus and cause small tumors to grow.

Adenomyosis is another type of tissue buildup. The condition occurs when your endometrium, or uterine lining, embeds itself into the muscles of your uterus. This can lead to a long or heavy period. You may have a long period if your thyroid is underperforming. This condition is known as hypothyroidism. Excess weight may cause long periods.

This excess estrogen can lead to a change in your period. Pelvic inflammatory disease PID occurs when bacteria infect your reproductive organs. In addition to changes to your menstrual cycle, PID can also lead to abnormal vaginal discharge among other symptoms. Take a pregnancy test and see your doctor to figure out the best treatment method.

Adenomyosis is a condition where the uterus lining, called the endometrium, is found in the muscular portion of the uterus. It is common in women who are in their 40s and have heavy, prolonged, and painful periods, says Dr.

Your doctor may order a pelvic ultrasound or MRI to help make the diagnosis. There is, unfortunately, no cure for adenomyosis, though symptoms are treatable, says Dr. Horton, so talk to your doc about your options. Pelvic inflammatory disease PID is a condition caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, like that from gonorrhea and chlamydia, traveling from the cervix into the fallopian tube.

PID can cause bleeding that is heavier than normal, spotting between menstrual cycles or spotting after sex. They can be treated with medication, which will stop the progression of PID too.

Left untreated though, and PID can cause lasting issues with fertility. Obesity can affect your menstrual cycle, says Dr. Horton, because larger bodies produce excess estrogen, which can affect how often you have your periods and eventually cause you to stop ovulating regularly.

Losing weight ideally 15 percent of your body weight can help you regulate your periods, she says. Your doctor may also prescribe birth control pills or progesterone to help with the prolonged heaving bleeding. Weight Loss. United States. Presented by. Type keyword s to search. Alexmia Getty Images. How long does a period typically last? You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

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