Using Tranexamic Acid for Managing Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
At 34 years old, I've tried various contraceptive options, including the Jaydess coil, which initially worked well for me for a whole year before I started experiencing constant bleeding. Since I was 12, my periods have been excessively heavy, leading to frequent episodes of severe anemia. In addition to debilitating pain, which I would describe as moderate on some days, I have a number of symptoms related to endometriosis. After multiple referrals and examinations, it was discovered that I have cervical ectropion, though nothing else significant was identified. My gynecologist encouraged me to consider switching to hormonal birth control options like the pill or coil, or even to undergo a hysterectomy—none of which appeal to me. I have concerns about potential side effects that I have experienced before, such as decreased libido, acne outbreaks, and hair thinning. However, I believe the side effects were less pronounced with the Jaydess. I value my natural ovulation process and worry that any hormonal treatment might disrupt it, especially since I experience intense PMS but feel generally good around ovulation. Recently, I visited a hospital for an unrelated issue, and during the consultation, I mentioned that I am currently taking Tranexamic acid. This was recommended by my doctor after I declined hormonal contraceptives. I take two tablets daily for four days out of each month. However, the consultant I spoke with—who wasn't a gynecologist—expressed significant concern over my use of Tranexamic acid. He advised against long-term usage due to potential severe side effects, describing it as a readily available medication for menstrual issues. Now, I find myself anxious about continuing this treatment, yet I am equally afraid of the repercussions of heavy monthly bleeding. Any guidance or advice on managing this situation would be greatly appreciated.
Answers (1)
8/28/2025, 2:17:16 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are facing a challenging situation with heavy menstrual bleeding, ongoing pain, and past experiences with hormonal treatments that haven't felt right for you. You're currently using Tranexamic acid to help manage your heavy periods, but concerns about its long-term use have added to your anxiety.
Main Points:
- Understanding Tranexamic Acid: It is generally considered safe for managing heavy menstrual bleeding but should be monitored.
- Addressing Your Concerns: It’s essential to weigh the benefits of reducing heavy bleeding against potential side effects.
- Next Steps for Management: Focus on what you can actively control while considering additional options for symptom relief.
Explanation:
Tranexamic acid works by helping to reduce bleeding, which can significantly improve your quality of life if taken correctly. According to reputable guidelines, it is usually safe for short-term use during periods but may require monitoring under healthcare supervision when used long-term. Concerns about side effects are valid, so it’s important to discuss these with a healthcare provider who specializes in gynecology.
Your experience of heavy periods and associated symptoms like pain and anemia are important. It’s great that you’re considering your overall well-being and the natural processes of your body. Since hormonal treatments have caused side effects for you in the past, it makes sense that you would want to be careful about any new medications or therapies.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of your bleeding patterns, pain levels, and any side effects from Tranexamic acid. This will provide valuable information for your healthcare provider.
-
Schedule Follow-Up Consultations: Consider arranging an appointment with your gynecologist or a specialist experienced in endometriosis. Discuss your current treatment with Tranexamic acid and express your concerns about both its use and the alternatives suggested. Ask specific questions about safety and the likelihood of managing your heavy bleeding without hormones.
-
Explore Non-Hormonal Options: Investigate other non-hormonal treatments, such as:
- Uterine Fibroid Embolization: This may help if you have fibroids contributing to heavy bleeding.
- Endometrial Ablation: This procedure can be effective for heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Ensuring a healthy diet, regular exercise, and possibly supplements (like iron for anemia) can help with managing your symptoms.
-
Consider Mental Well-being: Given your anxiety about this situation, exploring stress management techniques or talking to a counselor may provide additional support as you navigate this challenging time.
It's vital to prioritize your health and comfort, and you are actively seeking ways to improve your situation, which is commendable. Please feel free to reach out for more specific information on any of the steps or options.
Related Questions
Struggling with Bleeding and Pain Since Christmas
I'm a 27-year-old woman from the UK, and I've reached a point of exasperation. I'm reaching out because I hope someone can provide insight or guidance on what I should discuss with my doctors. Please excuse any grammar or spelling errors as I have dyslexia. I've been diagnosed with endometriosis and underwent surgery in 2022 for confirmation of that diagnosis. On December 15th, I had my birth control implant removed after nearly two years. During that period, I experienced severe menstrual cramps and PMS. My GP started me on Drospirenone 3mg and Estetrol 14.2mg COCP in October to alleviate these symptoms and suppress my periods, which provided some relief. Prior to this situation, I occasionally dealt with flare-ups that typically lasted a few days or up to a week. To help manage the discomfort, I have been prescribed Duloxetine at a dosage of 90mg. I had an ultrasound earlier this summer, and the results came back normal. Currently, I am awaiting an MRI. Last year, my smear test results were also clear. After the removal of my implant in December, I began bleeding on Christmas Eve. Initially, I could manage with just a panty liner, but over the next few weeks, the bleeding intensified, requiring the use of pads due to increased blood flow and blood clots. Given my history with endometriosis, pain isn't unfamiliar to me; my average pain level is around a 4, but it has recently escalated to 7 or 8. In the past couple of weeks, the discomfort has worsened. My job demands physical activity, and bending over now causes pain in my back and legs. Additionally, I experience discomfort when my bladder fills, and urination is painful, although it doesn't feel like a urinary tract infection. I've also been waking up at night to use the restroom. My doctor performed a urine dip test that showed no signs of infection, though there was blood in my urine, which he indicated was to be expected. Recently, my GP prescribed Tranexamic acid 500mg and Mefenamic acid 500mg, which helped with the blood clots, but I'm still experiencing bleeding and significant pain. I've been diligent about taking my medication, treating it like a strict regimen. I returned to the GP, who referred me for another ultrasound and advised me to go to A&E if the pain worsens. I've been resting as much as possible while still trying to maintain some level of activity, but it hasn't provided much relief. Any assistance or advice would be immensely appreciated! Thank you!
Normal MRI and EMG Reveal Nerve Slowdown
Greetings, I’m a 23-year-old female seeking guidance about some health issues I’ve been experiencing. Recently, I've noticed weakness in both my hand and arm, particularly in my dominant hand where grip strength has been notably diminished. After undergoing an EMG, the results indicated that my nerves are exhibiting a slowdown. However, my MRI results were unremarkable. To address some swelling I experienced, I was prescribed a course of steroids (4mg for a few months), which alleviated some of the issues, yet I still experience residual swelling in my hand. Often, my hand feels cold, and I notice a popping sensation when I move my fingers. Despite these sensations, I do not have any numbness or tingling, and the swelling appears sporadic. The pain I endure is quite severe, described as a hammering sensation throughout my hand. On occasion, I take ibuprofen (600mg) for relief, but it proves to be somewhat ineffective. My wrist itself seems fine, but my orthopedic specialist is considering a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), even though my symptoms don’t align with typical CTS indicators. I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights you may offer!
Chronic Hypersomnia Since Adolescence: A Seeking Path for Answers
I am a 30-year-old white male, standing 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing 160 pounds, residing in the United States. **Current Medications:** - Adderall XR 40 mg - Sunosi 150 mg - Lisinopril 40 mg - Atenolol 25 mg - Tolvaptan 60 mg **Medical Background:** - Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) at stage 2 (eGFR 67) - Obstructive Sleep Apnea (utilizing CPAP machine since July 2024) - Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) **Symptoms Experienced:** - Persistent and overwhelming sleepiness—more than just fatigue—accompanied by a heavy feeling in my face and chest; I struggle to keep my eyes open and often feel as if I am burdened. - I sleep for 10 to 14 hours every night, supplemented by involuntary naps lasting 1 to 2 hours multiple times throughout the day. - None of my sleep feels restorative, leading to a groggy, hangover-like state upon waking. - Cognitive challenges including a lack of focus, forgetfulness, and trouble retrieving words, which have grown more pronounced over the last four years. - Activities as simple as showering or cooking now feel like moving through molasses. - I experience low physical endurance and lengthy recovery times, even though I previously maintained a regular exercise routine. My late father exhibited similar symptoms with the addition of seizures he associated with alcoholism, although he was never assessed medically. I, on the other hand, do not have any alcohol or addiction issues. **Specialist Consultations:** - **Sleep Specialist:** A Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) ruled out narcolepsy with no Sleep Onset REM Periods (SOREMs) and a 12-minute latency. I comply with CPAP therapy for an average of eight hours each night, but there has been no alleviation of my symptoms. Testing revealed no periodic limb movement disorders, alpha-delta intrusions, or unexplained nighttime arousals. - **Nephrologist:** Symptoms are considered unlikely to stem from my current stage of ADPKD. Tests show I’m not anemic, with standard iron levels. - **Rheumatologist:** An ANA titer of 1:320 with a speckled and nucleolar pattern appears elevated; however, all specific autoimmune tests returned negative. Monitoring was suggested without a clear diagnosis provided. - **Psychiatrist:** It was determined that my symptoms do not seem to be connected to mental health issues. My therapist has also validated in a letter that my condition is unrelated to psychological factors. - **Miscellaneous Findings:** An arachnoid cyst was detected in my brain. My white blood cell count is borderline low and my red blood cell count alternates between normal and low realms. Testosterone levels are within the normal range, though morning cortisol is slightly elevated. Normetanephrine is elevated at 2.15 nmol/L, while metanephrine remains normal at 0.27 nmol/L. Both Vitamin D and B12 levels are adequate. Tests for STIs returned negative results. **Current Situation:** I am currently on disability, unable to work even in part-time capacities and can no longer engage in exercise, finding myself nearly confined to my home. I feel as though I am being sent from one specialist to another without gaining clarity on my condition. What avenues should I explore next? Which type of medical professional might offer further insight? I'm beginning to doubt my own experiences, pondering if I am merely being lazy or overly sensitive.
Sudden Stabbing Throat Pain
As a 19-year-old female, I find myself dealing with a sudden, intense pain localized on the right side of my throat, adjacent to my windpipe and beneath my chin. These episodes are unpredictable; they strike without warning, persist for just a fleeting moment, and then vanish completely. This situation is genuinely concerning for me. I'm at a loss for how to alleviate this discomfort. Has anyone encountered a similar issue or have any insight into what could be causing this?
Discomfort in the Left Temple and Forehead
I’m a 25-year-old female who does not regularly use medication. I occasionally drink and smoke. For the past three days, I’ve been experiencing intermittent pain localized to the left side of my head, particularly in the temple and the frontal region. The discomfort isn’t constant; it appears and disappears rather than lasting throughout the day. Given the symptoms, I initially suspected it might be a migraine, though I remain uncertain about the diagnosis.