What's wrong with a menstrual period lasting up to 15 days

Menstrual period lasting up to 15 days may be caused by endocrine disorders, uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, coagulation dysfunction, luteal insufficiency, and other reasons. It is necessary to combine gynecological examinations and hormone level assessments to determine the cause.

1. Endocrine disorders:

Long term mental stress or excessive dieting may lead to dysfunction of the hypothalamic pituitary ovarian axis, manifested as prolonged menstrual cycles. Commonly seen in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome, accompanied by symptoms such as acne and hirsutism. Diagnosed through six tests for sex hormones, adjust lifestyle and use short acting contraceptives to regulate the cycle.

2. Uterine fibroids:

Submucosal fibroids can easily cause an increase in uterine cavity area and abnormal uterine contractions, leading to prolonged menstruation and increased menstrual flow. Ultrasound examination can detect muscle wall or subserosal masses with a diameter exceeding 5 centimeters or causing anemia, and hysteroscopic resection should be considered.

3. Endometrial polyps:

Excessive estrogen levels stimulate local proliferation of the endometrium, leading to the formation of polyps and irregular bleeding. Hysteroscopy examination shows single or multiple pink growths, and diagnosis requires curettage or electrocautery. Regular follow-up is necessary to prevent recurrence after surgery. 4. Coagulation dysfunction: Diseases such as thrombocytopenia or hemophilia can lead to prolonged clotting time, manifested as incomplete menstrual bleeding. It is necessary to improve the four coagulation tests and platelet function testing. After diagnosis, it is necessary to supplement coagulation factors or administer platelet transfusions to treat the primary disease.

3. Luteal insufficiency:

Insufficient progesterone secretion during the luteal phase leads to incomplete shedding of the endometrium, resulting in prolonged menstruation and reduced menstrual flow. Basal body temperature monitoring shows a shortened phase of high temperature, and after diagnosis, progesterone capsules or dexamethasone tablets need to be supplemented in the second half of the menstrual cycle.

It is recommended to record bleeding for at least three menstrual cycles, including start and end times, bleeding volume, and accompanying symptoms. Avoid eating raw, cold, and spicy foods in daily life, and supplement iron rich foods such as animal liver and spinach in moderation. Moderately engage in low-intensity exercises such as yoga and walking to avoid exacerbating bleeding with vigorous exercise. If there are more than 10 consecutive menstrual cycles or symptoms of anemia such as dizziness and fatigue, timely vaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy, and thyroid function examination should be performed. Perimenopausal women who experience abnormal bleeding should be alert to endometrial lesions and, if necessary, undergo diagnostic curettage to rule out malignant lesions.