A Preliminary Investigation of what Happens to Women Complaining of Menorrhagia but whose Complaint is not Substantiated

Abstract

This observational follow-up study determined the outcome, after a minimum of 3 years' follow up, in women complaining of excessively heavy menses, whose measured blood loss was within the normal range. Of the 81.7% of women followed up, 26% were happy with their periods, 19% were menopausal or taking hormone replacement therapy, 18% were taking a variety of other medical therapies and 28% had undergone surgery. The remainder were pregnant, lactating, or attempting conception. The decision to treat is not solely based on measured blood volume. Some women are intent upon an end to menstruation or have additional indications for surgical intervention. Others are happy with the reassuring knowledge that their menstrual blood loss is normal.

Key Words:

• Menstruation
• Objective Blood Loss Measurement
• Menorrhagia