Are There Methods to Alleviate Menstrual Bleeding?
Heavy menstrual bleeding, commonly referred to as menorrhagia, is a prevalent health issue among women. There are several strategies that may help alleviate this condition, including:
- Adjusting lifestyle habits.
- Utilizing certain dietary supplements and over-the-counter medications to mitigate accompanying symptoms. We will discuss these in the section “Dietary Supplements That May Alleviate Menstrual Bleeding.”
- Modifying the diet, as there is a belief that certain dietary changes may help lessen menstrual symptoms. It is advised that a balanced diet include appropriate food groups, such as specific fatty acids, vitamins, and dietary fibers; however, it has not been proven that these changes can significantly reduce heavy menstrual bleeding or related issues.
- Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial in order to identify the root cause of the problem and find an effective solution to reduce both the intensity and duration of bleeding.
Herbs that May Help Alleviate Menstrual Bleeding
A variety of herbs are believed to aid in reducing menstrual bleeding; however, further research is necessary to confirm their effectiveness. Below are some herbs that may help with this issue:
Ginger
A study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research in 2014 indicated that ginger consumption had a more pronounced effect on reducing menstrual bleeding compared to those receiving a placebo.
Pomegranate Flowers
Research published in the Medical Journal of the Islamic Republic of Iran (MJIRI) in 2015 indicated a reduction in blood loss in approximately 80.8% of women who took pomegranate flower extract (scientific name: Punica granatum L.) along with tranexamic acid for three months. However, another study published in Phytotherapy Research in 2016 noted potential side effects, including breast pain and vomiting.
Common Myrtle
A preliminary study published in the Daru Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences in 2014 suggested that taking myrtle syrup could help reduce abnormal uterine bleeding. Myrtle is an aromatic evergreen shrub belonging to the Myrtaceae family that may aid in lessening menstrual bleeding.
Dietary Supplements That May Help Alleviate Menstrual Bleeding
Increasing the intake of vitamins during menstruation may contribute to reducing bleeding. Certain nutrients, particularly iron, can help replenish what is lost during bleeding each month. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before beginning any supplements to determine individual needs, suitable dosages, and to monitor for potential side effects or interactions. Below are some supplements that may be beneficial in alleviating bleeding:
Iron
Research suggests that iron deficiency could exacerbate menstrual bleeding; therefore, iron supplements may help alleviate heavy menstrual flow. Rich sources of iron include liver, apricots, eggs, ground beef, raisins, beans, cooked spinach, and chicken, in addition to brewer’s yeast and wheat germ. It’s worth noting that vitamin C aids in the absorption of iron from food, which can significantly benefit vascular health.
Vitamin A
Deficiency in vitamin A might contribute to increased menstrual bleeding in adult women. A study published in the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association in 2007 found that most participants with heavy menstrual bleeding had lower levels of vitamin A compared to those without health issues. About 57.5% of the participants experienced a return to normal bleeding patterns, while 35% had a reduction in bleeding. Only 7.5% of the participants reported no effective change, indicating that roughly 92.5% experienced some relief.
Vitamin B Complex
A potential link exists between vitamin B complex deficiency and heavy menstrual bleeding. Insufficient levels of this vitamin may impair the liver’s ability to deactivate estrogen, a hormone potentially linked to increased menstrual flow. Therefore, vitamin B complex may help regulate estrogen levels back to normal.
Tips for Reducing Menstrual Bleeding
Here are some practical approaches that can be implemented at home to alleviate symptoms and restore normalcy to menstrual cycles:
Maintain Hydration
When menstrual bleeding exceeds normal levels for several days, blood volume may be adversely affected. Drinking an additional 4-6 cups of water daily can help maintain blood volume. It is also advisable to consume a saline solution or incorporate more salt into the diet to balance the excess fluids consumed throughout the day.
Ensure Adequate Rest
The body requires energy to replenish lost blood during heavy menstrual bleeding, making it essential to take time to rest whenever possible.
Engage in Physical Activity
Regular exercise may alleviate some health issues associated with heavy menstruation. For instance, activities like yoga can help reduce stress related to this condition.