What should I do if my menstrual bleeding does not stop?

Menstruation is a normal physiological phenomenon in women, occurring cyclically. Typically, a menstrual period lasts about one week—though it may end earlier or be delayed—but the duration is generally not excessively prolonged. In daily life, many women experience delayed menstruation that persists abnormally long without resolution, prompting concern about methods to stop it. So, what should be done if menstruation continues unabated? Below, we address this question.

What to Do If Menstruation Continues Unabated

1. Symptom-Based Treatment

Persistent menstruation requires targeted treatment. For example, in cases of dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB), initial management focuses on hemostasis, followed by regulation of the menstrual cycle to prevent recurrent bleeding. For uterine fibroids, treatment—either pharmacological or surgical—is determined based on tumor size. Women with luteal phase deficiency may benefit from short-term hormonal therapy to regulate menstruation. If an intrauterine device (IUD) is causing prolonged or irregular bleeding, alternative contraceptive methods should be considered. Additionally, maintaining external genital hygiene is essential—underwear should be washed and changed frequently.

2. Daily Care

If menstruation continues unabated, consider whether it reflects menstrual irregularity or stems from other underlying conditions; timely nutritional support is crucial. Avoid consuming cold, raw, or spicy foods. Instead, increase intake of high-fiber foods, which help elevate magnesium levels in the blood—thereby aiding menstrual regulation and exerting a calming effect. If prolonged menstruation results from emotional stress, anger, or physical fatigue, adequate rest often suffices for recovery.

Knowledge Expansion: Causes of Menstrual Irregularity

1. Pathological Factors

Common causes of abnormal uterine bleeding include uterine fibroids, endometriosis, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, and infections of the reproductive tract. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and intrauterine adhesions primarily cause oligomenorrhea (infrequent periods), hypomenorrhea (scanty flow), or amenorrhea (absence of menses). Chronic systemic diseases such as chronic hepatitis or hematologic disorders can disrupt homeostasis and lead to menstrual disturbances. Thyroid dysfunction—either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism—is also a well-recognized cause of menstrual irregularity.

2. Physiological Factors

Excessive dieting, physical exhaustion, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and chronic sleep deprivation are all unhealthy lifestyle habits that impair overall bodily function, disrupt physiological equilibrium—and potentially trigger endocrine imbalances leading to menstrual abnormalities. Research indicates that body fat must constitute at least 22% of total body weight to sustain a normal menstrual cycle; therefore, extreme dieting must be avoided. Moreover, women experiencing persistent anxiety, tension, or fear may develop hypothalamic-pituitary suppression due to excessive psychological stress, ultimately resulting in menstrual irregularities.

The above outlines key approaches to managing persistent menstruation. We hope this information proves helpful to you.