Why does menstruation take so long?

Delayed menstruation may be related to endocrine disorders, uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, coagulation disorders, luteal insufficiency and other factors. It is recommended to seek medical examination promptly and provide targeted treatment after the cause is determined.

1. Endocrine disorders

Long-term mental stress, excessive dieting or obesity may lead to hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis dysfunction, causing abnormal secretion of estrogen and progesterone. It manifests as menstrual cycle disorders and prolonged menstrual periods, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as acne and hirsutism. You can use progesterone capsules, dydrogesterone tablets and other drugs as directed by your doctor.

2. Uterine fibroids

When fibroids compress the endometrium or affect uterine contractions, they can lead to increased menstrual flow and prolonged menstrual periods. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as lower abdominal distension and frequent urination. Hysteroscopic surgical resection can be considered for submucosal fibroids, while mifepristone tablets and other drugs can be used to control intramural fibroids.

3. Endometrial polyps

When polyps enlarge, they will interfere with the normal shedding of the endometrium, causing prolonged menstruation or spotting. May be accompanied by bleeding after intercourse. After diagnosis, it is recommended to undergo hysteroscopic polypectomy, and drospirenone and ethinylestradiol tablets can be taken for a short period of time after surgery to prevent recurrence.

4. Coagulation dysfunction

Diseases such as thrombocytopenia and hemophilia can cause abnormalities in the coagulation mechanism, making it difficult for menstrual blood to coagulate. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as skin ecchymosis and gum bleeding. It is necessary to complete the coagulation function test, and if necessary, infuse coagulation factors or tranexamic acid tablets for treatment.

5. Luteal insufficiency

Premature atrophy of the corpus luteum will lead to insufficient secretion of progesterone and incomplete shedding of the endometrium. It manifests as premenstrual spotting and prolonged menstruation. Basal body temperature monitoring shows that the high temperature phase is shortened, and progesterone soft capsules can be used for supportive treatment as directed by the doctor.

During prolonged menstruation, the vulva should be kept clean and the perineum should be washed with warm water 1-2 times a day.； Choose cotton underwear with good breathability and change it frequently ； Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy physical labor ； Eat more iron-rich animal livers, lean meats, etc. in your diet, and use vitamin C to promote iron absorption. ； Record menstrual cycles and bleeding conditions to provide reference for doctors’ diagnosis ； If the bleeding lasts for more than 7 days or is accompanied by anemia symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue, you must seek medical attention immediately.