Persistent Bleeding for 8 Months: Seeking Solutions After Multiple Consultations
I’m a 25-year-old woman, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing 180 pounds. Currently, I am taking iron supplements, B12, Zoloft, and Sprintec, along with regular iron infusion treatments. For the past eight months, I have experienced almost continuous bleeding, with perhaps only about 15 days where I was free from it. This ongoing issue has left me feeling dizzy, fatigued, and quite depressed. I have undergone three D&C procedures along with hysteroscopy interventions in an attempt to halt the bleeding, and I've had numerous ultrasounds and lab tests performed. Medications I have tried include Provera, TXA, Megace, and Gallifrey, and I am currently on Sprintec for the second time. My hope is to have more children in the future. Presently, I am losing approximately the amount of blood equivalent to a super plus tampon every hour. When sitting on the toilet, the blood flows out like a stream, similar to urination. I even attempted drinking raspberry leaf tea, as suggested in various online groups, but it didn’t help. I’m looking for additional suggestions to manage this condition. It has been a particularly distressing week. I reached out to my hematologist about my situation, and she suggested another infusion. Meanwhile, my OBGYN recommended waiting three weeks, advising me to seek medical attention if I experience shortness of breath, bluish skin, or confusion. I have sought multiple opinions regarding my condition. How can I at least slow down this bleeding? I find myself needing to change frequently while sitting on the toilet, and I worry about the consequences of this relentless bleeding. I’m feeling overwhelmed and frightened about what might happen next.
Answers (1)
8/6/2025, 4:40:54 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about the ongoing challenges you're facing with persistent bleeding. It’s understandable that this situation is overwhelming and distressing, especially given its impact on your daily life and emotional well-being. Let's discuss some potential steps you can take to manage your symptoms effectively while you continue to pursue medical evaluations and treatments.
Main Points
- Ongoing bleeding should not be ignored; it needs effective management.
- Focus on symptom control, hydration, and dietary support.
- Close communication with your healthcare providers about your symptoms is essential.
Explanation
Continuous bleeding for eight months is concerning and can potentially lead to serious health issues like anemia and fatigue, which you're already experiencing. The treatments and medication trials you've undergone signify a thorough approach, but it can be frustrating when you're not seeing improvements. Importantly, both your hematologist and OBGYN have provided necessary guidelines, but it’s critical to seek strategies for immediate relief and symptom management.
Next Steps
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Maintain Hydration: Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day. This is crucial for your overall health, especially as you're losing blood. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily, adjusting for your own comfort and activity level.
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Monitor Symptoms Daily: Keep a log of your bleeding patterns, symptoms (dizziness, fatigue), and emotional health. This can help you and your providers identify any patterns or triggers, and aid in decision-making for your future treatments.
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Dietary Considerations: Focus on iron-rich foods (like spinach, lentils, lean red meats) to help combat fatigue and anemia. B12 is also crucial, so include foods like fish, meat, and dairy. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, consider fortified foods or speak to a dietitian.
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Discuss Current Medications: Revisit your current medications with your healthcare providers. Ask about the possibility of adjusting the dosage of Sprintec or exploring other hormonal options that may help stabilize your bleeding.
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Consider Supplemental Support: Continue your iron infusions as recommended, and discuss with your hematologist if other supportive treatments like IV fluids or medications to manage bleeding, such as Desmopressin or newer therapies, can help even if you’ve tried some before.
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Coping with Emotional Health: Finding a mental health professional to discuss feelings of depression and overwhelm can be immensely helpful. Seeking support from a counselor familiar with chronic health conditions may also help you navigate emotional struggles.
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Immediate Care: If you experience increased severity in symptoms, such as shortness of breath, severe dizziness, or confusion, act quickly and seek immediate medical assistance as advised by your OBGYN.
Your health and well-being are priorities, and while this situation is complex, there are paths to explore. Don’t hesitate to share your concerns and progress with your healthcare providers to adapt your treatment plan as needed. You're not alone in this journey.
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